The RPG-2 is a Soviet rocket launcher developed shortly after World War 2. The design of the RPG-2 is based on the Nazi German Panzerfaust 250, which was developed at the final stages of World War 2. The RPG-2 was developed mainly as a low cost and easy to use weapon. Due to its limited performance it was replaced by the iconic RPG-7. At a glance RPG-2 and RPG-7 look very much alike.

The RPG-2 consists of a reusable launcher and a muzzle loaded overcaliber projectile. The steel launche tube has a wooden cover to protect the user from both heat and cold. A pistol grip with trigger is used to fire the projectile. Aiming is done by two mechanical flip up sights. The projectile has a HEAT warhead twice the size of the body. It is stabilized in flight by several small folding fins. The RPG-2 is operated by a single soldier. Usually a second soldier carries additional ammunition.

The HEAT warhead is capable of penetrating 150 to 180 mm RHA. An improved Chinese warhead penetrates 265 mm under optimal conditions. Maximum range is quoted as 200 meters. In practice the maximum range is 150 meters against stationary targets and 100 meters against slow moving targets. Accuracy is reported to be poor.

The RPG-2 was produced in large quantities and widely used with Soviet forces and its allies. Due to its limited combat effectiveness it was also soon replaced by the more capable RPG-7. The RPG-2 and its Asian production models were widely used during the Vietnam war. The RPG-2 is considered obsolete for a long time. It is still in sporadic use in third world countries.