www.military.ie the defence forces magazine
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As a section-level weapon, all infan-
try privates must be proficient in its
use. However, although adopted by
the Defence Forces over 10 years ago,
it is a weapon still relatively unfamiliar
to RDF troops. Accordingly, in early
November 2016, the RDF elements of
the Dublin-based 7 Inf Bn conducted
a M203 grenade launcher qualifica-
tion range practice on Kilbride Camp's
military ranges.
Preparation for the shoot had begun
some months previously, with person-
nel from the battalion's three RDF
companies partaking in a course of
training culminating in October with
TOETs (tests of elementary training),
which all personnel passed.
The day of the shoot, although
quite cold, turned out to be perfect
range weather, windless and sunny.
Over 40 RDF personnel fired the
standard qualification table, which
includes standing, kneeling, and
prone firing positions.
Training courses that culminate with
qualification range practices like this
one add to the education and skills
of RDF soldiers, and allow for greater
flexibility within the DF as a whole.
Each newly qualified 7 Inf Bn RDF sol-
dier can now be issued with the Steyr/
M203 in any future exercises with our
PDF comrades. This gives commanders
more options in the assignment and
deployment of RDF troops within inte-
grated sections and platoons, thus, in
practical terms, building towards the
single-force concept of a combined
and unified unit consisting of both
PDF and RDF troops.
M203 Grenade Launcher StatiSticS
Manufacturer Diemaco
Weapon Type Grenade Launcher
Country of Manufacture Canada
Entered Service 2002
Calibre 40mm
Ammunition Feed Breach Loaded
Weight 2.15kg
Mode of Fire Single Shot
Range 400m
Rate of Fire 5 to 7 rounds/min
Length 305mm
Sight Iron Sight
Members from the 7 Inf Bn RDF on
the firing point
