Backblast area

Packing crates are used to demonstrate the danger of the M72 LAW back blast
Backblast area for FGM-148 Javelin

The backblast area is a cone-shaped area behind a rocket launcher, rocket-assisted takeoff unit or recoilless rifle, where hot gases are expelled when the rocket or rifle is discharged.[1] The backblast area is dangerous to ground personnel,[2] who may be burned by the gases or exposed to overpressure caused by the explosion.[3] In confined spaces, common in urban warfare, even the operators themselves may be at risk. Soft launch methods diminish the backblast.

References

  1. ↑ Morris, Christopher G. (1992). Academic Press dictionary of science and technology. Gulf Professional Publishing. p. 202.
  2. ↑ Louison, Cole G. (2009). U.S. Army Zombie Combat Skills. Globe Pequot. p. 112.
  3. ↑ "Javelin—Close Combat Missile System, Medium, Field manual". Department of the Army. 20 March 2008. Retrieved Sep 3, 2010.
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