Grenade System Allows for Attachable and Stackable Grenades

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A Norwegian defense company has recently developed a new hand grenade system. Developed by Nammo, the Mark 21 Mod 0 grenade system is unique since it allows multiple grenades to attach to each other, allowing the soldier to control the size of the explosion in comparison to the situation.

There are two main types of grenades, defensive and offensive. Defensive hand grenades are the more common frag grenades such as the M-67 grenade. When they explode they shoot out hot pieces of shrapnel in all directions. Due to their lethality, they are most likely to be used by defending troops, when the chances of friendly fire are slim.

Offensive grenades are often used to stun enemy forces. Usually flashbang grenades, offensive grenades are often much less lethal, therefore they are most likely used in scenarios where friendly troops may be nearby.

The United States Marine Corps do not use offensive grenades. Instead, they use the regular defensive frag grenade when on the offensive. Many believe that this has caused a large number of Marines to be harmed by friendly grenades.

Specifically designed for use in close rooms, the Mark 21 grenade will help lower the likelihood of friendly fire. The Mark 21 system allows for up to three grenades to be connected to each other. Each grenade has its own fuse, but when stacked together all three grenades share the same fuse.

Obviously the more grenades stacked, the larger the explosion. This concept allows soldiers to control the size of the explosion based on the threat and environment they are dealing with, with Popularmechanics.com reporting that three Mark 21 grenades when stacked are strong enough to take down structures.

The United States Marines have shown interest in the Mark 21 grenade system, however they have not had the opportunity to evaluate the weapon yet.