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{{About|the British 3-inch rocket projectile munition|other uses|RP3 (disambiguation){{!}}RP3}}
{{Infobox weapon
| name               = RP-3
| image              = 3 in RP 60 pdr Loading On Typhoon.jpg
| image_size         = 300
| caption            = Loading of RP-3 rockets fitted with 60 lb semi-armour-piercing high-explosive warheads onto a [[Hawker Typhoon]]
| origin             = [[United Kingdom]]
| type               = Unguided air-to-surface rocket
<!-- Type selection -->| is_missile         = yes
| is_UK              = yes
<!-- Service history -->| service            = 1943–1968 (UK)
| used_by            = [[Royal Air Force]], [[Royal Navy]], [[Royal Australian Air Force]] and others
| wars               = [[World War II]], [[Indonesian National Revolution]], [[Malayan Emergency]], [[Suez Crisis]], [[Korean War]], [[Aden Emergency]]
<!-- Production history -->| designer           = 
| design_date        = 
| manufacturer       = 
| unit_cost          = 
| production_date    = 
| number             = 
| variants           = see [[#Variants|variants]]
<!-- General specifications -->| spec_label         = 
| weight             = {{cvt|35|lb}} {{cvt|17.9|kg}} Mk 1 engine<br />{{cvt|17.2|kg}} Mk 2, 3, 4 engine
| length             = {{cvt|55|in}} rocket<br />{{cvt|500|–|560|mm}} warhead
| part_length        = 
| width              = 
| height             = 
| diameter           = {{cvt|3.25|in}} rocket body
<!-- Explosive specifications -->| filling            = TNT/RDX/Amatol
| filling_weight     = {{cvt|1.3|–|5.5|kg}}
| detonation         = 
| yield              = <!-- Vehicle/missile specifications -->
| engine             = solid fuel rocket
| engine_power       = {{cvt|800|kgf|order=flip}}
| fuel_capacity      = {{cvt|5.2|kg|order=flip}} solid propellant
| vehicle_range      = {{cvt|1600|m|order=flip}}
| speed              = With {{cvt|25|lb}} warhead: {{cvt|380|m/s|order=flip}}<br>With {{cvt|60|lb}} warhead: {{cvt|230|m/s|order=flip}}
| guidance           = Unguided

<!-- Missiles only -->| wingspan           = 
| propellant         = [[cordite]]
| ceiling            = 
| altitude           = 
| boost              = 
| accuracy           = 
| launch_platform    = Aircraft<br />[[Landing Craft Tank (Rocket)]]
| transport          = 
}}
The '''RP-3''' (from '''Rocket Projectile 3 inch''') was a British air-to-ground [[rocket (weapon)|rocket projectile]] introduced during the [[Second World War]]. The "3 inch" designation referred to the nominal diameter of the rocket motor tube. The use of a {{cvt|60|lb}} warhead gave rise to the alternative name of the "60-pound rocket". Though an air-to-ground weapon, it saw limited use in other roles. They were generally used by British [[fighter-bomber]] aircraft against targets such as tanks, trains, motor transport and buildings, as well as by [[Coastal Command]] and [[Royal Navy]] aircraft against [[U-boat]]s and ships.

Use continued post-war, with the last known major operational use being during the [[Aden Emergency]] in 1964, where [[Hawker Hunter]]s flew 642 sorties and fired 2,508 RP-3s in support of Radforce. Use continued until the withdrawal from [[Aden Protectorate]] in November 1967, at which point the RP-3 was withdrawn from service in favour of the newer [[SNEB]]. Concerned about the possibility of shipboard [[radar]] setting off the SNEB's electrical ignition, the [[Royal Navy]] replaced their RP-3s with a new design, sometimes known as the [[2-inch RP]].

== History ==
===Earlier systems===
The first use of rockets fired from aircraft was during the [[First World War]]. The "unrotated projectiles" (UPs) were [[Le Prieur rocket]]s mounted on the [[interplane strut]]s of [[Nieuport]] fighters. These were used to attack [[observation balloon]]s and were reasonably successful. [[Sopwith Baby]], [[Sopwith Pup]] and Home Defence [[Royal Aircraft Factory B.E.2|B.E.2]] fighters also carried rockets.<ref name = "Rocket Attack 1">''Aeroplane Monthly'' June 1995</ref>{{page needed|date=April 2021}}

===Development===
Starting in 1935, the British began development of new anti-aircraft weapons, including [[cordite]]-powered surface-to-air rockets. Several models of these [[Unrotated Projectile]] (UPs) were introduced, starting with a {{convert|7|inch}} diameter model that saw use both in ground batteries and on larger ships. In 1937, new models at {{convert|2|inch}} and {{convert|3|inch}} diameters were introduced. By 1938, work on the 2-inch model had been slowed in favour of the 3-inch models which offered performance similar to the [[QF 3-inch 20 cwt]] [[anti-aircraft gun]]. Tests in [[Bermuda]] in 1939 suggested that the accuracy was not high enough to be used in a fashion similar to a gun, and development was slowed.

After the [[Dunkirk evacuation]] in 1940 it was clear an attack on the UK was coming, and production was quickly ramped up. Still considering the accuracy to be low, they were to be fired in salvos from the "[[Z battery|Z-Batteries]]".<ref name="Rocket Attack 1" />{{sfn|Ramsay|1990}}{{page needed|date=April 2021}} Consisting largely of light metal tubes on a rotating platform, 7,000 launchers were available by August 1940, although production of the rockets themselves lagged and only 10 rockets each were assigned to 840 launchers. Several updated models of the launchers were introduced and the system claimed a small number of aircraft.

===Air-to-ground===
When German forces under the command of [[Erwin Rommel]] intervened in the [[Western Desert campaign]] from early 1941, it became clear that the [[Desert Air Force]] lacked weapons capable of damaging or destroying the large numbers of [[armoured fighting vehicle]]s, particularly the heavier [[Panzer III]] and [[Panzer IV]] medium tanks used by the Germans. In April 1941 [[Henry Tizard]], the chief scientist of the British government, called together a panel to study "Methods of Attacking Armoured Vehicles".<ref name="Rocket Attack 1"/>

The types of weapons investigated included the 40&nbsp;mm [[Vickers S]] gun and related weapons manufactured by the [[Coventry Ordnance Works]], as well as the [[Bofors 40 mm Automatic Gun L/60|Bofors 40 mm]] and the US [[M4 cannon|37 mm T9 cannon]] fitted to the [[Bell P-39 Airacobra]]; it was already recognised that these weapons were only capable of dealing with [[light tank]]s and motor transport. Using larger weapons on fighter-bombers was ruled out because of weight and difficulties handling recoil. The chairman of the panel, Mr. Ivor Bowen (Assistant Director of Armament Research) turned to the idea of using rocket projectiles to deliver a large warhead capable of destroying or disabling heavy tanks.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://kingscollections.org/catalogues/lhcma/collection/b/bo58-001|title=Bowen, Ivor (1902-1984) |work=Liddell Hart Military Archives|publisher=King's College London}}</ref>{{Incomplete citation|date=September 2023}} Information was sought from the Soviets, who had been using unguided [[RS-82 rocket]]s since 1937.<ref name="Rocket Attack 1"/><ref group=note>The possibility of the Soviets sending a team of engineers to help set up production of these weapons was canvassed in August 1941. The Soviet offer was withdrawn, in spite of [[Operation Benedict]] British efforts at supplying [[Hawker Hurricane]]s and training Soviet aircrew in their use.{{citation needed|date=April 2021}}</ref>

By September 1941 it was decided that two models of UP would be developed:
* A 23&nbsp;lb [[plastic explosive]] on a standard 2-inch UP
* A 20&nbsp;lb solid armour-piercing head on a 3-inch UP

When it was realised that the 2-inch version would be less effective than the Vickers S cannon, it was decided to concentrate on development of the 3-inch version, which could be developed from the 2-inch rocket used in the Z-Batteries.<ref name="Rocket Attack 1"/>

== Design ==
[[File:3 in RP Attaching 60 pdr Warheads.jpg|thumb|right|Attaching 60 lb SAP warheads onto RP-3 rocket projectile bodies]]
[[File:31 Squadron RAAF Beaufighter loading practice RP-3 Coomalie Creek NT Nov 1944 AWM NWA0672 (cropped).jpg|thumb|RP-3 rocket with 60 lb concrete practice warhead]]
The rocket body was a steel tube {{convert|3.25|in|abbr=on}} in diameter and {{convert|55.19|in|mm|abbr=on}} long<ref>AP2802 Section 3 Chapter 2, paragraph 5</ref> filled with {{convert|5.2|kg|abbr=on|lb|sigfig=3}} of [[cordite]] propellant, fired electrically.<ref name="rakettjänst">''Bestämmelser för rakettjänst'', p2</ref> The warhead was screwed into the forward end, and was initially a solid {{convert|24|lb|12|oz|kg|abbr=on}}, {{convert|3.44|in|abbr=on}} diameter and {{convert|12.4|in|abbr=on}} long (with adaptor)<ref>AP2802 Section 3 Chapter 3, paragraph 4</ref> [[armour piercing|armour-piercing]] warhead which was quickly supplanted by a {{convert|152|mm|in|adj=mid|abbr=on|sigfig=3}}, {{convert|27.4|kg|adj=on|lb|abbr=on|sigfig=3}} [[high explosive]] head.<ref name="rakettjänst"/> For practice there were also a {{convert|25|lb|adj=on}} mild steel semi-armour-piercing warhead, a {{convert|25|lb|adj=on}} concrete practice head<ref name="AP2802" /> and a {{convert|27.2|kg|adj=on|lb|abbr=on|sigfig=3}} concrete practice head.<ref name="rakettjänst"/> Once the rocket had been mounted on the rails, an electrical lead (or "pigtail") connected the rocket to the firing controls.

Four large tailfins {{convert|4|by|5|in|mm|abbr=on}}<ref>AP2802 Section 3 Chapter 2, paragraph 14</ref> induced enough spin to stabilize the rocket, but as it was unguided, aiming was a matter of judgment and experience. Approach to the target needed to be precise, with no [[sideslip]] or [[Yaw angle|yaw]], which could throw the RP off line. Aircraft speed had to be precise at the moment of launch, and the angle of attack required precision. [[Trajectory]] drop was also a problem, especially at longer ranges.<ref group=note>In tests carried out by the [[A&AEE]], dispersion (when aimed at a {{convert|20|ft|adj=on}} square target) was {{convert|13|ft|6|in|m|abbr=on}} at {{convert|1,000|ft|adj=on}} range – equal to 3° to 4° aiming error.</ref><ref name="Rocket Attack 2">''Aeroplane Monthly'' July 1995</ref>

The rocket was less complicated and more reliable than a gun firing a shell and there was no recoil on firing. It was found to be a demoralising form of attack against ground troops and the 60-pound warhead could be devastating. The rocket installations were light enough to be carried by single-seat fighters, giving them the punch of a [[cruiser]].<ref group=note>A typical Royal Navy cruiser of the era carried eight to twelve 6-inch guns firing {{convert|112|lb|adj=on}} projectiles, while a fighter could fire eight 60-pound RP-3 rockets in a single salvo.</ref> Against slow-moving large targets like shipping and [[U-boat]]s, the rocket was a formidable weapon.

The weight and drag of the all-steel rails initially fitted to British aircraft blunted performance. Some aircraft such as the [[Fairey Swordfish]] biplane used against submarines had steel "anti-blast" panels fitted under the rails to protect the wing, which further increased weight and drag. [[Aluminium]] Mark III rails, introduced from late 1944, reduced the effect. American experience with their own rockets (the [[USAAF]]'s [[3.5-Inch Forward Firing Aircraft Rocket]] (FFAR) and the [[US Navy]]'s [[5-Inch Forward Firing Aircraft Rocket|5-inch FFAR]] and [[High Velocity Aerial Rocket|HVAR]]<ref>[http://www.designation-systems.net/dusrm/app4/35in-rockets.html 3.5 in FFAR] [http://www.designation-systems.net/dusrm/app4/5in-rockets.html 5 in FFAR and HVAR] Retrieved 6 March 2008</ref>) showed that the long rails and anti-blast panels were unnecessary; zero-length launchers were introduced in May 1945. British aircraft started being fitted with "zero-point" mounting [[Aircraft pylon|pylons]] in the post-war years.

The 3-inch rocket motors (less warhead) were used in the 'bunker buster' "[[Disney bomb]]" (official name: 4500&nbsp;lb Concrete Piercing/Rocket Assisted bomb), 19 of them propelling the {{convert|4,500|lb|t|adj=on}} bomb to {{cvt|990|mph|m/s|abbr=on}} at impact with the target.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Burakowski|first1=Tadeusz|title=Rakiety i pociski kierowane – Zastosowania|first2=Aleksander |last2=Sala|trans-title=Rockets and guided missiles|language=Polish|year=1960|publisher= Wydawnictwo Ministerstwa Obrony Narodowej (Ministry Of National Defense Publishing House)|location=Warsaw|volume=I |pages=556–557}}</ref>

== Service history ==
=== Air-to-ground use ===
[[File:Hawker Typhoon showing salvo of rocket projectiles.jpg|thumb|right|Hawker Typhoon [[gun camera]] photo of a rocket salvo fired at railway wagons in a siding at [[Nordhorn]], Germany (1945)]]
Before the new weapon was released for service extensive tests were carried out by the Instrument, Armament and Defence Flight (IADF) at the [[Royal Aircraft Establishment]], Farnborough. [[Hawker Hurricane]]s were fitted with rockets and rails and flown during June and July 1942. Further tests were undertaken from 28 September to 30 November to develop rocket-firing tactics. Other aircraft used were a [[Lockheed Hudson]], a [[Fairey Swordfish]] biplane torpedo bomber, a [[Douglas A-20 Havoc|Douglas Boston]] medium bomber and a Sea Hurricane.<ref name="Rocket Attack 2"/>
At the same time the [[Aeroplane and Armament Experimental Establishment]] (A&AEE) had to develop tactics for all the individual aircraft types which were to be armed with the RPs.
Aiming was through a standard GM.II [[Reflector sight|reflector gunsight]]. A later modification enabled the reflector to be tilted with the aid of a graduated scale, depressing the line of sight, the GM.IIL.<ref>{{citation |url=http://www.429sqn.ca/acmgs.htm |title=Reflector and Gyroscopic Gunsights used in WWII aircraft |website=429 sqn RCAF Research}}</ref> For rockets only the Mk IIIA was the most successful – it was used on the [[Lockheed Ventura]] and Hudson.

The first operational use of the RP was in the [[Western Desert campaign]] as a "tank-busting" weapon on [[Hawker Hurricane]] Mk. IIEs and IVs. The 25-pound armour-piercing heads were found to be ineffective against the [[Tiger I]] heavy tanks coming into German service. With the example of the success of [[Royal Artillery]] gunners using high-explosive shells from their [[Ordnance QF 25 pounder]] gun-howitzers, it was decided to design a new 60-pound semi-armour-piercing (SAP) head. These were capable of knocking turrets off tanks.<ref name="Hills">Hills 2003, page 121</ref>

A typical RP-3 installation was four projectiles on launching rails under each wing. A selector switch was fitted to allow the pilot to fire them singly (later omitted), in pairs, or as a full salvo. Towards the end of the war some [[RAF Second Tactical Air Force]] (2 TAF) [[Hawker Typhoon]]s had their installation adapted to carry an additional four rockets doubled up under the eight already fitted.<ref name="Shores and Thomas">Shores & Thomas 2005, pages 245-250</ref>

RP-3s were widely used during the battle the [[Falaise pocket]] in mid-August 1944. During the battle German forces, retreating to avoid being trapped in a [[pincer movement]] by Allied ground forces, came under air attack. Amongst the waves of light, medium and fighter bombers attacking the German columns the Typhoons of 2 TAF attacked with their rockets, claiming hundreds of tanks and "mechanised enemy transport".<ref group=note>also known as "motorized enemy transport", as opposed to [[Horses in World War II#Logistics|"horse-drawn transport"]] (HDT)</ref> After the battle, Army and 2nd TAF [[Operational Research]] Sections studying the battleground came to the conclusion that far fewer vehicles, 17 in total, had been destroyed by rocket strike alone. What was clear was that in the heat of battle it was far harder for pilots to launch the weapons while meeting the conditions needed for accuracy. Smoke, dust and debris in the target areas made accurate assessment of the damage caused almost impossible.<ref name="Shores and Thomas"/> It was also clear that rocket attacks devastated the [[morale]] of enemy troops – many vehicles were found abandoned intact, or with only superficial damage. Interrogation of captured prisoners showed that even the prospect of rocket attack was extremely unnerving for them.<ref name="Shores and Thomas"/>

Large stocks of RP-3s remained at the end of the war and they were used well into the jet age. They were used operationally during the [[Malayan Emergency]], [[Korean War]] and the [[Indonesia–Malaysia confrontation]]. The last known use in combat is by [[Hawker Hunter]]s in [[Aden]] from 1964 to as late as 1967 in support of Radforce. When these aircraft moved to [[Bahrain]] in November 1967, the remaining RP-3s were withdrawn from service and replaced by the newer [[SNEB]].<ref>{{cite magazine |magazine=Royal Air Force Historical Society Journal |date=2009 |title=A History Of Air-To-Surface Rocket Systems |first=David |last=Herriot |url=https://www.rafmuseum.org.uk/documents/Research/RAF-Historical-Society-Journals/Journal_45_Seminar_conventional_weapons.pdf |number=45 |page=100}}</ref>

=== Anti-submarine ===
[[File:Swordfish landing on HMS Tracker WWII IWM A 19718.jpg|thumb|A rocket-armed Swordfish lands aboard the escort carrier [[HMS Tracker (D24)|HMS ''Tracker'']].]]
Soon after some encouraging results from the initial deployment, trials of the weapon were conducted against targets representing U-boats. It was discovered that if the rockets were fired at a shallow angle, near misses resulted in the rockets curving upwards in seawater and piercing the targets below the waterline. Soon [[Coastal Command]] and the Royal Navy's [[Fleet Air Arm]] aircraft were using the rockets extensively.

The first U-boat destroyed with the assistance of a rocket attack was [[German submarine U-752|''U-752'']] (commanded by {{lang|de|Kapitän-Leutnant}} Schroeter), on 23 May 1943, by a Swordfish of [[819 Naval Air Squadron]] (819 NAS). The rockets used on this occasion had solid, cast-iron heads and were known as "rocket spears".<ref>Gerald Pawle, ''The Wheezers & Dodgers'', Seaforth Publishing 2009 {{ISBN|978-1-84832-026-0}} {{Page needed|date=April 2017}}</ref> One of these punched right through the submarine's [[pressure hull]] and rendered it incapable of diving; the U–boat was scuttled by its crew. On 28 May 1943, an RAF Hudson of [[No. 608 Squadron RAF|608 Squadron]] destroyed a U-boat in the Mediterranean, the first destroyed solely by rocket.<ref name="Rocket Attack 2"/> These rockets were, among other factors, credited with making it too dangerous for the Germans to continue operating their [[German Type VII submarine#U-flak "Flak Traps"|''Flak'' U-Boats]], which were fitted with heavy anti-aircraft weaponry and acted as escorts for U-boats crossing the Bay of Biscay.

From then until the end of the Second World War in Europe, Coastal Command and the Fleet Air Arm used the rockets as one of their primary weapons (alongside [[torpedo]]es, which, to a certain extent they replaced) against shipping and surfaced U-boats.

=== Ground-to-ground use ===
As part of the initial bombardment of the landing areas for the [[Normandy landings]] June 1944, [[Landing Craft Tank (Rocket)]] each armed with about 1000 RP-3 rockets were used. The LCT(R) fired the rockets in large salvoes of around 40 RP-3 at a time.

[[File:The British Army in North-west Europe 1944-45 BU4676.jpg|thumb|right|Rocket-armed [[M4 Sherman|Sherman tanks]] of the [[Coldstream Guards]], 28 April 1945]]
In 1945, some British [[M4 Sherman|M4 Sherman tanks]] were fitted with two or four rails – one or two either side of the turret – to carry 60-pound headed rockets. These were used at the Rhine Crossing by tanks of the 1st [[Coldstream Guards]]. The tanks were called "Sherman Tulips". The tanks fitted included both conventional Shermans and the more heavily armed [[Sherman Firefly|Sherman Fireflies]].<ref name="tanks-encyclopedia" />

The modifications were first tried out by two officers of the 1st Armoured Battalion, Coldstream Guards, [[5th Guards Armoured Brigade]], who obtained rockets and launching rails from an RAF base and carried out the first test firings on 17 March 1945. They were inspired after hearing the idea had been earlier tried, but abandoned, by a Canadian reconnaissance unit, the [[18th Armoured Car Regiment (12th Manitoba Dragoons)]], who had fitted RP-3 rails to a [[T17 (armored car)|Staghound Armoured Car]] in November 1944.<ref name="tanks-encyclopedia" /> There are photos of four such rockets on a [[Cromwell tank|Cromwell]] cruiser tank, however little is known about it for certain.

Within a week all the tanks of Number 2 Squadron had been fitted with launch rails, some tanks had two launching rails, others had four. The rails were at fixed elevations and the rockets had fixed ranges either {{convert|400|or|800|yd|m}}.<ref name="tanks-encyclopedia">{{Cite web |url=http://www.tanks-encyclopedia.com/ww2/gb/Sherman-Tulip.php |title=Sherman Tulip Rocket Firing Tanks |last=Moore |first=Craig |date=28 April 2016 |website=www.tanks-encyclopedia.com}}</ref>

The rockets were highly inaccurate when fired from a tank as they were being fired from a stationary point and had little slipstream over the fins. Despite this, the RP-3 was valued by tank crews for the destructive effect of its 60-pound warhead.<ref name="Fletch">{{cite book|last=Fletcher|first =David|title=Sherman Firefly|year=2008|publisher=Osprey Publishing |series=New Vanguard 141 |isbn=978-1-84603-277-6}}</ref>{{page needed|date=April 2021}} In combat, they were also used for short-range, saturation bombardment of an area and were effective as an immediate counter to German ambushes.<ref name="tanks-encyclopedia" />

=== Swedish service ===
The RP-3 rocket saw use with the [[Swedish Air Force]] from 1946<ref name="Raketbeväpning">{{Cite book|last=Sjögren|first=Sven|title=Raketbeväpning i svenska flygvapnet, FV raketbeväpning 1944-1954|publisher=Kungliga Flygförvaltningen (Royal Swedish Air Force Materiel Administration)|location=Stockholm, Sweden|page=12|trans-title=Rocket-armament in the Swedish air force, AF rocket-armament 1944-1954|language=sv}}</ref>{{page needed|date=September 2023}} to 1957.<ref name="Raketmateriel 1957">{{Cite book|title=Flygvapnets raketmateriel, 1957 års upplaga|publisher=Kungliga Flygförvaltningen (Royal Swedish Air Force Materiel Administration)|year=1957|location=Stockholm, Sweden|trans-title=The Air Force's rocket-ordnance, 1957 edition|language=sv}}</ref>{{page needed|date=September 2023}}

Sweden had been experimenting with [[caseless ammunition]] as a substitute for air-to-ground rockets during WWII as it was thought that caseless ammunition would be cheaper to produce. This however proved false and by the end of the war the Swedish air force had moved to rocket development instead.<ref name="Raketbeväpning"/> The Swedish weapons company [[Bofors]] had been developing rockets on their own initiative since 1943 but, due to lack of funding, did not have a design by the time the Swedish air force gained interest.<ref name="Raketbeväpning"/> As it would take years to develop indigenous rockets for the Swedish air force it was decided to buy rockets from abroad to gain operational experience which could be used in indigenous development. 
[[File:Saab b17 RP-3 rocket.jpg|thumb|[[Saab 17|Saab B 17A]] from [[Västgöta Wing]] (F&nbsp;6&nbsp;Karlsborg) trialed with {{nowrap|RP-3 rockets}} in May 1946. Tests were successful and the RP-3 was accepted for service as the 8&nbsp;cm&nbsp;rocket&nbsp;m/46.<ref name="Raketbeväpning"/>{{page needed|date=September 2023}}
]]

The RP-3 was chosen, and Sweden ordered a batch in 1946 for trials on the [[Saab 17|Saab B 17A]] [[dive bomber]] as it was readily available.<ref name="Raketbeväpning"/>{{page needed|date=September 2023}} In May a B 17A was fitted with rocket mounts for ground trials, and shortly after a [[Saab 18|Saab B 18B]] was also modified. The first firing trials took place at F 14 Ringenäs (belonging to Halland wing) during July 1946. Twenty six '60&nbsp;lb Practice' rockets were fired from the B 18B and three from the B 17A. Six '25&nbsp;lb AP' and '60&nbsp;lb SAP' rockets each were also fired from the B 17A.<ref name="Raketbeväpning"/>{{page needed|date=September 2023}} The trials were successful and the RP-3 entered service with the Swedish Air Force.<ref name="Raketbeväpning"/>{{page needed|date=September 2023}}

In Swedish service the RP-3 and its components were given Swedish Air Force designations.<ref name="Raketbeväpning"/> The RP-3 system as a whole was designated "{{nowrap|8 cm ''raket'' m/46}}".<ref name="Raketbeväpning"/> The RP-3 rocket engines that Sweden acquired were most likely the Mk.4/TH type<ref name="AP2802"/> based on available photos and descriptions.<ref name="Raketbeväpning"/> These were designated {{nowrap|8 cm ''raketmotor'' m/46}} (8&nbsp;cm ''rakmo'' m/46).<ref name="Raketbeväpning"/> The square fins were designated {{nowrap|8 cm ''fena'' m/46}}.<ref name="Raketbeväpning"/>{{page needed|date=September 2023}}

The Swedish Air Force adopted four warheads for the RP-3 rocket: the 25&nbsp;lb AP No.1, 25&nbsp;lb AP No.2, 60&nbsp;lb SAP No.2 and 60&nbsp;lb Practice.<ref name="Raketbeväpning"/>{{page needed|date=September 2023}}

* 25&nbsp;lb AP No.1 was designated {{nowrap|8 cm ''Pansarspets'' m/46A}}, (English: "8 cm armour tip model 46A"), in 1951 redesignated to {{nowrap|8 cm ''pansarhuvud'' m/46A}} (8&nbsp;cm ''phu'' m/46A) (English: "8 cm armour head 46A").<ref name="Raketbeväpning"/>
* 25&nbsp;lb AP No.2 was designated {{nowrap|8 cm ''Pansarspets'' m/46B}}, redesignated in 1951 to {{nowrap|8 cm ''pansarhuvud'' m/46B}} (8&nbsp;cm phu m/46B).<ref name="Raketbeväpning"/>
* 60&nbsp;lb SAP No.2 was designated ''{{nowrap|8 cm Sprängspets m/46}}'', ("8 cm Explosive tip 46"), in 1951 redesignated to {{nowrap|8 cm ''spränghuvud'' m/46}} (8&nbsp;cm shu m/46), ("8 cm explosive head m/46").<ref name="Raketbeväpning"/>
* 60&nbsp;lb Practice was designated {{nowrap|8 cm ''Övningsspets'' m/46}}, in 1951 redesignated to {{nowrap|8 cm ''övningshuvud'' m/46}} (8&nbsp;cm övnhu m/46).<ref name="Raketbeväpning"/>{{page needed|date=September 2023}}


In combination with the engine and square fins these warheads would produce the following rockets:<ref name="Raketbeväpning"/>{{page needed|date=September 2023}}
* 8 cm ''Pansarraket'' m/46A redesignated in 1951 as {{nowrap|8 cm ''pansarraket'' m/46A}} (8&nbsp;cm prak m/46A).
* 8 cm ''Pansarraket'' m/46B redesignated as {{nowrap|8 cm ''pansarraket'' m/46B}} (8&nbsp;cm prak m/46B). 
* 8 cm ''Sprängraket'' m/46 redesignated as {{nowrap|15 cm ''sprängraket'' m/46}} (8&nbsp;cm srak m/46).
* 8 cm ''Övningsraket'' m/46 redesignated as {{nowrap|15 cm ''övningsraket'' m/46}} (8&nbsp;cm övnrak m/46).

In 1952 Sweden had developed a whole line of indigenous rockets and started phasing out the RP-3. All models but the ''8 cm prak m/46B'' disappeared before 1953.<ref name="Raketmateriel 1953">{{Cite book|title=Flygvapnets raketmateriel, 1953 års upplaga|publisher=Kungliga Flygförvaltningen (Royal Swedish Air Force Materiel Administration)|year=1953|location=Stockholm, Sweden|trans-title=The Air Force's rocket-ordnance, 1953 edition|language=sv}}</ref>{{page needed|date=September 2023}} The remaining 8&nbsp;cm prak m/46B rockets were modified with new sloped fins around 1953. Around 30% of the fin surface area was removed. This decreased the chance of the fins breaking off during launch and also increased accuracy.<ref name="Raketbeväpning"/> These fins were designated ''{{nowrap|8 cm fena m/46C}}'' and when equipped on the ''{{nowrap|8 cm prak m/46B}}'' the suffix changed to C, then becoming ''{{nowrap|8 cm pansarraket m/46C}} (8 cm prak m/46C)''.<ref name="Raketmateriel 1953"/> The 8&nbsp;cm prak m/46C remained in service until 1957.<ref name="Raketmateriel 1957"/>

During its service life in the Swedish air force the rocket came to serve on several Swedish aircraft. To allow universal usage of the RP-3 the first and second generation of Swedish air-to-ground rockets used the same mounting system as the RP-3.<ref name="Raketbeväpning"/><ref name="Raketmateriel 1953"/><ref name="Raketmateriel 1957"/>

== Variants ==
[[File:Royal Air Force Coastal Command, 1939-1945. CH13179 (cropped).jpg|thumb|''Shot, 25&nbsp;lb, AP, No. 1, Mk. I'' rockets loaded onto Coastal Command [[Bristol Beaufighter]]]]
[[File:25lb AP No 2 rp-3.png|thumb|''Shot, 25&nbsp;lb, AP, No. 2, Mk. I'' rockets loaded onto [[de Havilland Mosquito]]]]
[[File:Hawker Typhoon with RP-3 60 lb F rockets.jpg|thumb|''Shell, HE, 60&nbsp;lb, "F"., No. 1, Mk. I'' rockets mounted on [[Hawker Typhoon]]]]
[[File:Royal Air Force- 2nd Tactical Air Force, 1943-1945. CL3839 (cropped).jpg|thumb|''Shell, HE, 60&nbsp;lb, SAP'' rockets mounted on Hawker Typhoon]]
[[File:Saab b17 RP-3 rocket (cropped).jpg|thumb|''Shell, Practice, Concrete, 60&nbsp;lb Mk. I'' rocket mounted on [[Saab 17]]]]

=== Warheads ===
;Shell, 18&nbsp;lb, HE
:{{convert|8|kg|sigfig=3|abbr=on}} "high-explosive" warhead.{{Citation needed|date=April 2021}}

;Shot, 25&nbsp;lb, AP, No. 1, Mk. I
:Armour-piercing warhead made out of hardened steel.<ref name="AP2802">{{Cite book|title=AP 2802A volume 1: Aircraft rocket installations, sighting and ammunition, 1946-12-12 edition|publisher=Royal Air Force|year=1946}}</ref> Used against submarines and merchant ships at angles of 15 degrees or greater.<ref name=AP2802_333>AP2802 Section 3 Chapter 3, paragraph 3</ref>

;Shot, 25&nbsp;lb, AP, No. 2, Mk. I
:Improved design over the Shot, 25 lb, AP, No. 2, Mk. I warhead made longer and pointier to increase penetration.<ref name="AP2802"/> It was used at angles of attack of less than 15 degrees.<ref name=AP2802_333/>

;Shot, 25&nbsp;lb, SAP, Mk. I
:Semi-armour-piercing" warhead; same design as the "Shot, 25 lb, AP, No. 2, Mk. I" but made out of [[mild steel]] and having the spigot fuzed together with the body.<ref name="AP2802_335">AP2802 Section 3 Chapter 3, paragraph 5</ref> By 1946 the design was obsolete and only used for advanced training.<ref name="AP2802_335"/>

;Shot, 25&nbsp;lb, Practice, Concrete, Mk. I
:Practice warhead {{frac|11|1|2}} inches by 5 inches diameter made out of concrete,<ref name=OP1665/> meant to simulate shooting the 25 lb AP and SAP warheads.<ref name="AP2802_333"/>

;Shell, HE, 60&nbsp;lb, "F"., No. 1, Mk. I
:Fragmentation warhead for use against unarmoured vehicles and personnel. Converted from a {{convert|4.5|in|sigfig=3|abbr=on}} [[howitzer]] shell with a ("direct action") ''Fuze, D.A., No. 899, Mk. I''<ref group=note>A No. 721 artillery fuze adapted with an arming device and other elements making it safer for aircraft use, the warhead arming itself about 0.7 seconds after launch</ref> fitted to the nose, the whole warhead was {{convert|22|in|abbr=on}} long and weighed {{convert|50.5|lb|abbr=on}}. The relatively thick wall ( 0.85 inches) and {{convert|4|lb|abbr=on}} high explosive (TNT or [[RDX]]/TNT) filling produced "heavy fragments" which inflicted damage at "considerable distance".{{refn|group=note |The safety instructions advised against firing at less than {{convert|600|yd|abbr=on}} range due to the risk to the aircraft.<ref>AP2802 Chapter 6 para 80</ref>}}<ref name=OP1665/><ref>AP2802 Chapter 6 para 3-9</ref>

;Shell, HE, 60&nbsp;lb, SAP
:Semi-armour-piercing high-explosive warhead that existed in four primary variants:<ref name=OP1665/><ref>AP2802 Section 3 Chapter 4, paragraph 1</ref>
:*'''Shell, HE, 60&nbsp;lb, SAP, No. 1, Mk. I'''
:*'''Shell, HE, 60&nbsp;lb, SAP, No. 2, Mk. I'''
:*'''Shell, HE, 60&nbsp;lb, SAP, No. 1, Mk. II'''
:*'''Shell, HE, 60&nbsp;lb, SAP, No. 2, Mk. II'''

:Variants designated mark 1 (Mk. I) had a shell body that consisted of two parts that were screwed together, a body and a tip.<ref>AP2802 Section 3 Chapter 4, paragraph 6</ref> Variants designated mark 2 (Mk. II) had the aforementioned shell body and tip forged together as one piece.<ref>AP2802 Section 3 Chapter 4, paragraph 9</ref> Variants designated number 1 (No. 1) were fitted with a time delayed base fuze (''Fuze, No. 865, Mk. I'') that allowed them to penetrate into a target before detonating.<ref name=OP1665/><ref name="AP2802"/> Variants designated number 2 (No. 2) were fitted with a non-delayed base fuze (''Fuze, No. 878, Mk. I'') which made them detonate almost instantly on impact.<ref name=OP1665/><ref>AP2802 Section 3 Chapter 4, paragraph 13</ref>

;Shell, Practice, Concrete, 60&nbsp;lb Mk. I
:Practice warhead 20 in long by 6 in diameter formed of concrete over steel reinforcing rods.<ref name=OP1665>OP 1665</ref> Used to simulate shooting the 60 lb SAP/HE warheads. This warhead could also be fitted with the "Smoke container, No. 1, Mk. I", which pressed on over front of the warhead and gave off a smoke signal on impact. The filling was {{convert|16|oz|abbr=on}} of [[titanium tetrachloride]].<ref>AP2802 Section 3 Chapter 5, paragraph 2-5</ref><!--chapter 5 paras 2-5 -->

;Shell, HE, 60&nbsp;lb, G.P.
:High-explosive general-purpose ([[HEAT|Hollow charge]]) warhead, trials ongoing as of September 1946.<ref name="Raketbeväpning"/> It could penetrate {{convert|198|mm|abbr=on}} at any range.<ref name=Boyd>Boyd, 2009</ref>

=== Rocket engines ===
The RP-3 rocket engine was updated a number of times during its lifespan, which gave rise to a number of variants. For example, it was necessary to modify the rocket engine's propellant charge in order to be able to use several types of warheads. Initially the rocket engine was only designed to use warheads up to {{convert|25|lb|kg|abbr=on}}, but when warheads up to {{convert|60|lb|kg|abbr=on}} were introduced the propellant charge had to be modified in order to use them. Variants capable of carrying warheads up to 60&nbsp;lb were then given the supplementary designation TH after the mark number.<ref>AP2802 Section 3 Chapter 2, para 3</ref>

;Aircraft rocket motor, 3 in., No. 1, Mk. 1
:The Mk. 1 engine had a {{convert|12.5|lb|abbr=on}} tubular-shaped [[cordite]] propellant charge.<ref name=AP2802p19>AP2802 Section 3 Chapter 2, paragraph 19</ref> The ignition cables are routed through the tubular propellant charge. This variant was suitable for use with 25 lb solid warheads.<ref name=AP2802p19/> It was not suitable for tropical climates (above {{convert|80|F|abbr=on}})<ref name=AP2802Table22>AP2802 Section 3 Chapter 2, 22</ref>
;Aircraft rocket motor, 3 in., No. 1, Mk. 1/TH
:TH variant of the Mk. 1 engine that could mount solid or shell warheads up to 25 lb. It could likewise not be used in hot climates.<ref name=AP2802Table22/>
;Aircraft rocket motor, 3 in., No. 1, Mk. 2
:The Mk. 2 engine replaced the tubular propellant charge with an {{convert|11|lb|abbr=on}} [[cruciform]] (cross-shaped) propellant charge<ref name=AP2802p19/> through a different metal grid. The ignition cables were routed in one of the inner corners of the cruciform propellant-charge. This variant was only capable of mounting 25 lb warheads.<ref name=AP2802_Ch2_1922>AP2802 Section 3 Chapter 2 paragraph 19-22</ref>
;Aircraft rocket motor, 3 in., No. 1, Mk. 2/TH
:TH variant of the Mk. 2 engine that could mount warheads up to 60 lb.<ref name=AP2802_Ch2_1922/>
;Aircraft rocket motor, 3 in., No. 1, Mk. 3/TH
:The Mk. 3 engine replaced the two-pin ignition plug with a single-pin one<ref name="AP2802"/>
;Aircraft rocket motor, 3 in., No. 1, Mk. 4/TH
:The Mk. 4 engines extended the ignition cables to allow for double hanging, where one RP-3 was mounted below another RP-3.<ref>AP2802 Section 3 Chapter 2 paragraph 13</ref> During storage the extra length of the ignition cables was held in place by loose metal clips in the [[nozzle]].<ref name="AP2802"/>

=== Comparison ===
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|+Comparison of complete rounds<ref name="rakettjänst"/>{{efn|Taken from the [[Swedish Air Force]] 1950 manual "Bestämmelser för rakettjänst".<ref name="Raketbeväpning"/> See also Boyd<ref name=Boyd/><ref name="AP2802"/>}}<ref name="Boyd" />
|-
! Warhead
! Shot, 25&nbsp;lb,<br> AP, No. 1
! Shot, 25&nbsp;lb,<br> AP, No. 2
! Shell, HE, <br>60&nbsp;lb, SAP
! Shell, P., <br>Concrete, 60&nbsp;lb
! Shell, <br>60&nbsp;lb F
|-
!style="text-align: left;"| Warhead diameter
| colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" |{{convert|88|mm|abbr=on|disp=br()}}
| colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" |{{convert|152|mm|abbr=on|disp=br()}}
|style="text-align: center;" |{{Convert|4.5|in|abbr=on|disp=br()}}
|-
! style="text-align: left;" | Warhead length{{efn|including spigot which screws into engine}}
|style="text-align: center;"|{{convert|314|mm|abbr=on|disp=br()}}
|{{convert|378|mm|abbr=on|disp=br()}}
|{{convert|553|mm|abbr=on|disp=br()}}
|{{convert|608|mm|abbr=on|disp=br()}}
|{{convert|22|in|abbr=on|disp=br()}}
|-
! style="text-align: left;" | Warhead weight
| colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" |{{convert|11.3|kg|abbr=on|disp=br()}}
|{{convert|27.4|kg|abbr=on|disp=br()}}
|{{convert|27.2|kg|abbr=on|disp=br()}}
|{{Convert|46.9|lb|abbr=on|disp=br()}}
|-
! style="text-align: left;" | Explosive charge
| colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" |none
|{{convert|6|kg|abbr=on}} <br>[[TNT]] or Amatol 60/40<ref name="OP1665" />
|none
|{{Convert|3|lb|abbr=on}}<br> TNT or RDX/TNT 60/40
|-
! style="text-align: left;" | Engine length
| colspan="5" style="text-align: center;" |{{convert|1400|mm|ftin|abbr=on}}
|-
!style="text-align: left;"| Engine diameter
| colspan="5" style="text-align: center;" |{{convert|82.7|mm|abbr=on}}
|-
!style="text-align: left;"| Width with fins
| colspan="5" style="text-align: center;" |{{convert|336|mm|abbr=on}}
|-
!style="text-align: left;"| Overall length
|{{convert|1639|mm|ftin|abbr=on|disp=br()}}
|{{convert|1703|mm|ftin|abbr=on|disp=br()}}
|{{convert|1880|mm|ftin|abbr=on|disp=br()}}
|{{convert|1933|mm|ftin|abbr=on|disp=br()}}
|
|-
!style="text-align: center;"| Weight of complete rocket{{efn|with {{convert|17.2|kg|abbr=on}} engine}}
| colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" |{{convert|28.5|kg|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|44.6|kg|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|44.4|kg|abbr=on}}
|
|-
!style="text-align: left;"| Propellant charge
| colspan="4" style="text-align: center;" |{{convert|5.2|kg|abbr=on}} [[cordite]]
|
|-
!colspan="6" |Performance
|-
!style="text-align: left;"| Propellant burn time<br>at {{convert|15|C|abbr=on}}
| colspan="4" style="text-align: center;" |1.6 s
|
|-
!style="text-align: left;"| Thrust at {{convert|15|C|abbr=on}}
| colspan="4" style="text-align: center;" |{{convert|800|kgf|lbf|abbr=on}}
|
|-
!style="text-align: left;"| Maximum velocity
| colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" |{{convert|380|m/s|abbr=on}}
| colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" |{{convert|230|m/s|abbr=on}}
|
|-
!style="text-align: left;"| Armour penetration
| colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" |{{convert|88|mm|abbr=on}} at {{convert|700|yd|abbr=on}}{{efn|A flight time of 0.89 seconds from aircraft travelling at {{convert|350|ft/s|mph km/h|abbr=on}}{{sfn|Boyd|2009}} }}<ref name=Boyd>Boyd, 2009</ref>
| style="text-align: center;" |
| style="text-align: center;" |
|
|}
{{notelist}}

== Aircraft use in the Second World War ==
As well as operational use, a number of aircraft were fitted with RP-3s on an experimental basis.{{Clarify|reason=Which of these are experimental and which operational?|date=September 2023}}

=== RAF and Commonwealth air forces ===
* [[Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress|Boeing Fortress Mk. II and IIA]]: ([[Coastal Command]])
* [[Bristol Beaufighter]] Mk. VI, VIC, X and 20: (Coastal Command, [[South East Asia Command]] and [[Royal Australian Air Force]], Pacific Theatre.)
* [[Consolidated B-24 Liberator|Consolidated Liberator]] B. Mk. III, VI: (Coastal Command.)
* [[de Havilland Mosquito]] F.B. Mk. VI: (Coastal Command, SEAC and RAAF, Pacific Theatre.)
* [[Hawker Hurricane]] Mk. IIE & IV: ([[Desert Air Force]], [[RAF Second Tactical Air Force]], SEAC.)
* [[Hawker Tempest]]
* [[Hawker Typhoon]] Mk. Ib: (2 TAF.)
* [[Republic P-47 Thunderbolt]] ([[USAAF]] used their [[M8 (rocket)|M8]] for this role instead, 6/aircraft)
* [[Supermarine Spitfire]]
* [[Vickers Wellington]] GR Mk. XIV: (Coastal Command)

=== Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm ===
* [[Fairey Firefly]] Mk. I
* [[Fairey Swordfish]] Mk. II, III
* [[Grumman TBF Avenger|Grumman Tarpon/Avenger]] Mk. I, II, III
* [[Hawker Hurricane variants#Sea Hurricanes|Hawker Sea Hurricane]] Mk. IIc ([[825 Naval Air Squadron]])
* [[Hawker Sea Fury]] [[807 Naval Air Squadron]]

== Aircraft use post Second World War ==
The 3-inch RP continued to be used on RAF and RN aircraft in the ground attack role until replaced by the [[SNEB]] podded rocket (RAF) and the 2-inch podded RP (RN).{{citation needed|date=August 2012}}

Post war operational use included the [[Malayan emergency]], the [[Korean War]], the [[Suez crisis]], and the [[Radfan campaign]].{{citation needed|date=August 2012}}

=== RAF and Commonwealth air forces ===
* [[Bristol Brigand]]
* [[de Havilland Hornet]]
* [[de Havilland Vampire]]
* [[de Havilland Venom]]
* [[Gloster Meteor]]
* [[Hawker Hunter]]

=== RAAF, RAN ===
RP-3 rockets were used by Australian armed forces into the 1970s<ref>{{citation |url=https://www.defence.gov.au/UXO/What/Docs/Rocket3in60lbRev02.pdf |work=Defence Unexploded Ordnance Website |title=Ordnance Information Sheet: Air-Launched Rocket - 3 Inch/60 Pound |publisher=Australian Government |edition=Rev 02. |date= March 2015}}</ref>
* Bristol Beaufighter
* North American P-51 Mustang
* de Havilland Vampire
* Fairey Firefly
* Gloster Meteor
* [[Fairey Gannet]]
* Hawker Sea Fury Mk11
* de Havilland Sea Venom

=== Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm ===
* [[Hawker Sea Fury]]
* [[Hawker Sea Hawk]]
* [[Supermarine Attacker]]
* [[Supermarine Scimitar]]
* [[de Havilland Sea Vixen]] - up to 24 rockets total on 4 pylons, six per pylon;<ref name="Sea Vixen Ground Attack">{{Cite web |url=https://www.seavixen.org/seavixen-operational-roles/ground-attack |title=Sea Vixen Operational Roles: Ground Attack |website=Sea Vixen}}</ref><ref name="Image 7 of gallery">{{Cite web |url=https://www.baesystems.com/en/heritage/de-havilland-dh110-sea-vixen |title=De Havilland's twin-boom, twin-engine jet fighter for the Fleet Air Arm |website=www.baesystems.com}}</ref>

=== Swedish Air Force ===
* [[North American T-6 Texan]] (Sk 16) - 4 rockets total on 2 pylons
* [[Saab 17]] (B 17A) - 4 rockets total on 4 pylons)
* [[Saab 18]] (A & T 18B) - 8-12 rockets total on 8-9 pylons
* [[Saab 21]] (A 21A-3) - 8 rockets total on 2 pylons)
* [[Saab 21R]] (A 21RA, RB) - 10 rockets total on 1 pylon
* [[de Havilland Vampire]] (J 28B, C) - 8 rockets total on 4 pylons
* [[Saab 29 Tunnan]] (J 29A, B, E, F) - 8 rockets total on 8 pylons
* [[Saab 32 Lansen]] (A 32A) - 12 rockets total on 12 pylons

== See also ==
* [[M8 (rocket)|M8]] American air-ground barrage rocket, {{convert|4.5|in|adj=on}} calibre
* [[Land Mattress]]
* [[Tiny Tim (rocket)|Tiny Tim]], an American {{convert|11.75|in|adj=on}} calibre, {{convert|1,255|lb|adj=on}} mass unguided rocket projectile

==Notes==
{{reflist |group=note|30em}}

== References ==
===Citations===
{{reflist|30em}}

=== Bibliography ===
* {{Cite book |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.-->|title=A.P. 2802A: Aircraft rocket installations, sighting and ammunition (RAF) |volume=I |publisher=Royal Air Force |date=July 1944 |url=https://bulletpicker.com/pdf/AP%202802%20Vol%201,%20Aircraft%20Rocket%20Installations,%20Sighting,%20and%20Ammunition.pdf |quote=Amended to 12 December 1946}}
* {{Cite book |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |title=Bestämmelser för rakettjänst |trans-title=Provisions for rocket-use |publisher=Kungliga Flygförvaltningen (Royal Swedish Air Force Materiel Administration) |year=1950 |location=Stockholm, Sweden |language=sv}}
*{{cite journal |last1=Bone |first1=Matt |title=Hell's Teeth: The Hawker Typhoon & the RP-3 Rocket Projectile|journal=The Aviation Historian |date=October 2022 |issue=41 |pages=38–47 |issn=2051-1930}}
* {{citation |first=David |last=Boyd |date=1 January 2009 |url=http://www.wwiiequipment.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=98:airborne-rockets-used-by-the-british-during-wwii&catid=44:gunsrockets&Itemid=60 |title=Airborne Rockets Used By the British During WWII |work=WWII Equipment }}
* [http://michaelhiske.de/Allierte/USA/OrdnancePamphlets/OP1665/Part03/Chapter02/Figure190.htm Ordnance Pamphlet 1665 British Explosive Ordnance Part 3 - Chapter 2 High-Explosive Rockets 3-in. Aircraft Rocket (Service)]
* {{citation |last=Hills |first= Stuart |title=By Tank Into Normandy |location=London|publisher=Orion Books|date=2003|isbn=978-0-3043-6640-8}}
* {{cite book|editor=Ramsay|editor-first=Winston |title=The Blitz Then and Now|volume=III|location=London|publisher=Battle of Britain Prints International|date=1990|isbn=0-900913-58-4}}
* {{cite book |last1=Shores |first1=Christopher |last2=Thomas |first2=Chris |title=Second Tactical Air Force: Breakout to Bodenplatte July 1944 to January 1945 |volume=II |location=Hersham |publisher=Ian Allan |year=2005 |isbn=1-903223-41-5}}
* {{citation |last=Webb |first= Derek Collier |title=Rocket Attack part 1 |work=Aeroplane Monthly |volume=23 |issue=6 |at=Issue No 266 |date=June 1995}}
* {{citation |last= Webb |first=Derek Collier |title=Rocket Attack part 2 |work=Aeroplane Monthly |volume=23 |number=7 |at=Issue No 267 |date=July 1995}}

== External links ==
{{Commons category|RP3 Rocket}}

{{WWIIBritishAircraftWeapons}}

[[Category:Air-to-ground rockets]]
[[Category:World War II weapons of the United Kingdom]]
[[Category:Weapons and ammunition introduced in 1943]]