On July 29, 2024, the Malaysian Army announced the signing of a contract with the Norwegian-Finnish joint venture Nammo for the supply of 800 units of the M72 LAW-EC (Light Anti-Tank Weapon – Enhanced Capacity) to replace aging Russian-made RPG-7 systems. This contract marks a significant step in Malaysia’s efforts to modernize its anti-tank arsenal. Although the total value of the transaction has not been disclosed, the average unit price of the M72 LAW-EC is estimated at $1,200.
The M72 LAW-EC is a modern version of the M72, first introduced in the early 1960s. Known for its lightweight and portable design as well as its armor-penetrating capabilities, the M72 LAW-EC has an effective range of 200 meters and weighs only 2.5 kg.
It is widely used around the world, with 35 countries, including the Turkish Army, having adopted it. In Malaysia, the M72 LAW-EC will replace the RPG-7 in the inventory of the 10th Para Brigade, thereby enhancing the operational capabilities of the country’s airborne forces.