The GL 40 is a modern grenade launcher of Israeli origin. IWI developed it in the late 2000's as a more modern alternative to the M203 grenade launcher for both domestic use and for export sales. The M203 proved somewhat difficult to integrate properly with the bullpup Tavor rifle and is considered an outdated design by today's standards.

The GL 40 incorporates many design features of modern grenade launchers, such as the extensive use of polymer to reduce weigth, a sideways opening barrel to allow loading of shells of any length and improved ergonomics and a double action trigger. The standalone model features a folding or telescopic stock. The under barrel models are quick detachable since they use a Picatinny interface.

The GL 40 is a single shot weapon that fires NATO standard 40x46mm low velocity grenades. Besides high explosive fragmentation rounds there is a wide selection of other types of rounds available. As the barrel opens sideways rounds of any length can be loaded. The effective range against point targets is 150 meters. Area targets can be engaged out to 400 meters, or 300 meters for the short barrel models.

The GL 40 is evaluated by Israeli forces and possibly is already in use. The GL 40 is also aimed at the export market. It is offered alongside the Galil ACE and X-95 rifles, but can also be mounted on other types of rifles and standalone models are available.