Essential for tail assembly and the production of infectious particles (By similarity). Degrades the peptidoglycan layer of the host cell wall and thereby facilitates infection of host bacteria. Acts probably as multifunctional enzyme that degrades N-acetylglucosamine polymers (in vitro) and cleaves the peptide cross-links of the host cell wall (By similarity). Binds 1 zinc ion per subunit. Located at the end of the tail structure. In the N-terminal section; belongs to the glycosyl hydrolase 24 family. In the C-terminal section; belongs to the peptidase M23B family.