US Army Introduces First New Grenade Since Vietnam Era Designed for Urban Combat

The U.S. Army has introduced its first new lethal hand grenade in decades, marking a significant shift in modern combat technology.

The new M111 grenade is designed to use powerful shock waves—known as blast overpressure—instead of traditional shrapnel to disable or eliminate enemy targets. Military officials say this makes it especially effective in urban combat, where fighting often takes place inside buildings.

Unlike standard fragmentation grenades, which can send metal fragments in all directions, the M111 reduces the risk of unintended injuries to nearby civilians or friendly forces. Its design allows troops to clear enclosed spaces more safely and efficiently.

The development comes after lessons learned in previous conflicts, including urban warfare in Iraq, where traditional grenades sometimes posed risks beyond their intended targets.

The Army says the M111 will be used alongside existing grenades, with each serving different purposes depending on the environment.

Officials say the new technology reflects evolving battlefield needs, particularly in densely populated areas where precision and minimizing collateral damage are critical.

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