Vietnam War: Guns of the Viet Cong & NVA

Published on November 16, 2017
Duration: 9:40

This video details the firearms and tactics of the NVA and Viet Cong during the Vietnam War, featuring insights from Colonel Greg Dillon. It covers the reliability of the AK-47 in adverse conditions, the use of SKS carbines by designated marksmen, and the deployment of RPGs as light artillery. The discussion also touches upon mortar systems, improvised explosives, and heavy machine guns like the DShK.

Quick Summary

The AK-47 was highly reliable for the NVA and Viet Cong, functioning well in mud and rain despite moderate accuracy. The SKS carbine served as a designated marksman rifle, targeting communications personnel and officers, while RPGs were used as improvised light artillery.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: NVA & Viet Cong Firearms
  2. 01:07Mortar Systems: 82mm vs 81mm
  3. 01:19Claymore Mines & Improvised Explosives
  4. 02:32AK-47 Reliability & B-52 Strikes
  5. 05:35SKS Carbines as Designated Marksman Rifles
  6. 06:05Heavy & Light Machine Guns (DShK, RPK, RPD)
  7. 06:52Combat Engagement Ranges
  8. 07:20RPGs as Light Artillery

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the primary firearms used by the Viet Cong and NVA during the Vietnam War?

The Viet Cong and NVA heavily utilized the AK-47 and its variants for their reliability in harsh conditions. They also employed the SKS carbine for designated marksman roles and various machine guns like the RPK and DShK.

How were RPGs used by NVA forces in Vietnam?

NVA forces often employed RPGs as a form of improvised light artillery. They would arc shots into enemy positions like Landing Zones (LZs), which could sometimes be mistaken for mortar fire due to the trajectory.

What made the AK-47 effective for the NVA and Viet Cong?

The AK-47's key advantage was its exceptional reliability in adverse conditions like mud and rain, making it a dependable weapon for guerrilla warfare, even though its accuracy was moderate compared to some Western rifles.

What role did the SKS carbine play for the NVA?

The SKS carbine was frequently used by NVA designated marksmen. Their primary targets were enemy radio operators to disrupt communications, followed by officers and non-commissioned officers (NCOs).

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