Dard 120
| Industry | Defense |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1978 |
| Headquarters | France |
The DARD 120 is a shoulder-fired rocket launcher created by the French company Societe Europeenne de Propulsion (SEP). Development commenced in 1978 with the goal of producing an anti-tank grenade launcher that could surpass the armor penetration capabilities of the preceding LRAC F1. The initial model, known as the Dard 90 (AC 1000), failed to deliver adequate penetration, prompting an increase in caliber. By 1979, efforts concentrated on a larger caliber system, culminating in the introduction of the DARD 120 in 1981, which was presented alongside rival systems such as APILAS and Jupiter 300.
Overview
The DARD 120 was engineered for infantry deployment within the French Army, launching a high-velocity projectile with significant precision. It is optimized for close-range combat scenarios and possesses a maximum effective reach of .
This launcher utilizes a split breechblock mechanism: a single-use pre-loaded tube connects to a reusable firing assembly that weighs and measures . The launch tube itself weighs and has a length of . The weapon discharges a HEAT warhead at , capable of breaching of steel armor. To enhance operational flexibility, optional night vision optics are available, and the system functions reliably across temperatures ranging from -30 to 50 °C (-22 to 122 °F), making it suitable for diverse climates including arctic and desert environments.