Berlin, — April 7, 2026 : The German Army has taken delivery of the first batch of GL 40 underbarrel grenade launchers manufactured by Austrian firearms producer Steyr Arms, marking the start of a wider procurement program aimed at replacing legacy grenade launcher systems in Bundeswehr service.
The delivery follows a framework agreement signed approximately one year ago after Steyr Arms secured the contract through a competitive tender process. Under the agreement, the German Armed Forces are expected to receive up to 4,476 units, while a parallel amended framework arrangement finalized in late February 2026 enables additional procurement to support broader distribution across operational units. Initial shipments were dispatched from the company’s production facility in Kleinraming, Austria.
The GL 40 is intended to replace the AG36 underbarrel grenade launcher, previously produced by Heckler & Koch and used primarily by German special forces units. The transition to the new system forms part of the Bundeswehr’s ongoing effort to standardize and modernize its small arms inventory.
Integration Across Rifle Platforms
The newly delivered grenade launchers are designed for integration with the Bundeswehr’s upcoming standard-issue assault rifle, the G95, including its G95K and G95A1 variants, which are based on the HK416 platform. In addition to forward compatibility, the GL 40 retains backward compatibility with the currently fielded G36 rifle, allowing continued use across existing units during the transition period.
The system is modular and can also function independently as a standalone weapon. In this configuration, it is compatible with AR15-standard pistol grips and adjustable buttstocks, allowing operators to configure the weapon according to ergonomic requirements. The conversion between underbarrel-mounted and standalone configurations can be performed rapidly without the need for specialized tools.
Technical Characteristics and Design
The GL 40 is a single-shot grenade launcher chambered for 40×46 mm low-velocity ammunition, with compatibility for medium-velocity rounds. It features a 180 mm cold hammer-forged steel barrel designed to provide durability under sustained use.
Unlike traditional front-loading systems, the launcher employs a side-swinging breech mechanism. This articulated design allows the barrel to open laterally, enabling the use of a wide range of ammunition types and lengths, including standard, extended, and less-lethal 40 mm grenades.
In its underbarrel configuration, the launcher measures 264 mm in length, 100 mm in width, and 95 mm in height, with a total weight of 1.17 kg. The compact dimensions are intended to minimize additional load on the host rifle while maintaining operational effectiveness.
All steel components are treated with Steyr Mannox surface coating, providing resistance against corrosion and mechanical wear in varied environmental conditions. The launcher is also equipped with STANAG 4694 Picatinny rails, allowing the attachment of optical sights and other aiming devices.
Safety Features and Operating Mechanism
The GL 40 incorporates a double-action trigger system combined with multiple safety mechanisms designed to meet military operational standards. These include a two-position ambidextrous manual safety lever and an internal drop protection system.
An automatic trigger lock engages when the launcher is not mounted on a rifle, ensuring safe handling during transport, maintenance, or reconfiguration. The system’s breech-loading articulated action supports reliable operation and ease of use in field conditions.
Procurement and Deployment Outlook
The delivery of the initial batch marks the transition from procurement to operational deployment, with further deliveries scheduled in the coming months. The program is part of a broader Bundeswehr modernization effort focused on improving infantry capabilities through updated weapon systems.
Steyr Arms will continue production and delivery under the existing contract while preparing for expanded orders under the amended agreement. The GL 40 is expected to be fielded across both conventional and specialized units, providing a standardized, modular grenade launcher capability within the German Armed Forces.
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