QLU-11

China's semi-automatic "sniper" grenade launcher — a shoulder-fired precision weapon delivering airburst and HEDP rounds out to 2,200 m, fielded in 35mm for the PLA and 40mm for export.

Overview

The QLU-11 (also designated Type 11 or QLU-131) is a semi-automatic, shoulder-fired precision grenade launcher developed by NORINCO for the People's Liberation Army. It is the first operational grenade launcher purpose-built for long-range point engagement — a "sniper" GL — rather than area suppression. The weapon exists in two calibers: the domestic QLU-11 in 35×32mm SR, sharing ammunition with the PLA's QLZ-87 and QLG-10 families, and the export LG5 / LG5s in NATO-standard 40×53mm HV. With an integrated fire-control system, laser rangefinder, and muzzle-mounted fuze programmer, it can place an airburst round through a window at 600 m or engage light armor at 1,000 m.

Development

China's interest in a precision grenade launcher emerged from early experiments with a 25mm concept analogous to the Barrett XM109, later shifting to a larger caliber. The QLU-11 was reportedly based on the HSARI LR2 12.7×108 anti-materiel rifle, and it entered PLA service around 2011, according to Wikipedia. The export LG5 variant was marketed soon after. Development was part of a broader Chinese push to field a wholly indigenous 35mm grenade ecosystem, distinct from both NATO 40mm and Russian 30mm standards, as documented in a 2010 NDIA presentation by Yang.

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