PROJECTED MUNITIONS

PROJECTED MUNITIONS

AMMUNITION MARKINGS AND COLOR CODES

INTERPRETING AMMUNITION MARKINGS
Stock Numbers
All items of issue in the Armed Forces are assigned a stock number. Two types of stock numbers
are now in use, the Federal Stock Number (FSN) and the National Stock Number (NSN).
The Federal Stock Number system is being phased out and replaced by the new National Stock
Number system. However, older manufactured items will still have the FSN until they are renovated,
modified, or used up.

Federal Stock Number. The FSN consists of 11 digits in three groups.

BREAKDOWN CHART

DEFINITION NUMBER
FEDERAL SUPPLY GROUP (FSG)
13
All ammunition items are in the 1300 FSG series.

FEDERAL SUPPLY CLASSIFICATION (FSC)

The two additional digits (30) mean that this ammunition is 30
grenades.

FEDERAL ITEM IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (FIIN)

The last seven digits of the FIIN tell the packing method -133-8244
and the type of filler.

FEDERAL STOCK NUMBER (FSN)

1330-133-8244
This is a complete FSN.

National Stock Number. The NSN consists of 13 digits in four groups. Otherwise, the NSN has only
minor differences from the FSN.

Department of Defense Identification Code

Four additional digits are used with ammunition FSNs and NSNs. These four digits are called the
Department of Defense Identification Code (DODIC). This code consists of a letter and three numbers. It
is added to ammunition stock numbers to show interchangeability of the item. Take, for example, the
following NSNs: 1315-00-028-4859 C445, 1315-00-028-4860 C445, and 1315-00-667-8034 C445.

They all have different NIINs. Different NIINs may mean that ammunition items have different packings or
fillers. However, since they all have the same DODIC, they have the same purpose and can be fired from
the same weapon.

Department of Defense Ammunition Code

When the DODIC is used alone after the FSC, it is called the Department of Defense Ammunition Code
(DODAC). An example is 1315-C445. All ammunition items with the same DODAC are interchangeable.

Nomenclature

The nomenclature, or name, of an item is marked immediately below the NSN on a container. The
number preceeding the nomenclature is the quantity of the item packed in the container. The
nomenclature of the item packed in this box is Grenades, Hand, Fragmentation, and there are 30 of each
in the box

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Supplementary Information

Immediately following the nomenclature, supplementary information is often added, the supplementary
information tells the model number of the grenades and the model number of the fuze installed in the
grenades.

Abbreviations

Nomenclature and supplementary information will often be abbreviated, using a standard system of
abbreviation

US Army Model Numbers

Model numbers are used to identify differences between items with the same nomenclature. All Army
model numbers begin with the letter M. In M27, for example, M means, "standard model." Types of model
numbers are explained as follows:

XM67. The X means that the item is developmental or experimental.

XM67E1. The E1 added means that the experimental item has one experimental modification.
XM67E2. The item has its second experimental modification.
M67. When the X is dropped, it means the item is no longer experimental or developmental and has
become a standard item.
M67E1. Standard items may sometimes have experimental modifications. E1 means it is a standard item
with one experimental modification.
M67A1. This model is a standard item with one approved modification.
M67A1E1. This model has one approved modification and one experimental modification. When the
experimental modification becomes standard, the new model number will be M67A2, meaning it has two
approved modifications.

Model Numbers of Other US Services

Some ammunition items used by the Army have Navy model numbers, which use the letters MK before
the number. An item with the Navy model number of MK4 is referred to as "Mark 4." The letters AN
preceeding the model number designate the item as an Army-Navy item. An example is Grenade, Hand,
Smoke, HC, AN-M8.

Additional Data

WT. The weight of the box in pounds, including all ammunition items and inner packing.
CU. The volume of the box in cubic feet using outside dimensions.
LOADED. The date (month and year) that the ammunition was assembled at the manufacturing plant.

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Lot Number

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The lot number is very important in accounting control and in malfunction investigations.
The lot numbering system, like the stock numbering system, is now being modified. The chart that follows
contains an explanation and comparison of the old and new lot numbering systems.

COMPARISON OF OLD AND NEW LOT NUMBERING SYSTEMS

OLD NEW
PBA-1-45 PBA75J001-045

MANUFACTURER’S SYMBOL PBA PBA

(where manufactured)

YEAR AND MONTH OF

PRODUCTION Not used 75J
(when the ammunition was
assembled)

INTERFIX NUMBER -1 001

(location and process of production)

SEQUENCE NUMBER -45 -045

(sequence of production)

In the chart, PBA stands for Pine Bluff Arsenal, and 75J stands for the year 1975 and the month of
October. (October is the tenth month; J is the tenth letter of the alphabet.) In the new system, the inter-fix
number and sequence number are both always three digits (for computerizing purposes). The only major
difference is that the old lot numbering system did not include the year and month that the ammunition
was assembled by the manufacturer.

Month of Production. Each ammunition lot number commencing with the first lot produces, assembles, or
modified will have the month of production inserted after the two (2) digit code identifying the year of
production. The month of production is a single alpha code assigned as follows:

January -A May -E September -I

February -B June -F October -J
March -C July -G November -K
April -D August -H December -L

Markings on Ammunition Items

Once you can identify all the markings found on ammunition boxes, it is time to learn to identify markings
found on ammunition items.

Some small ammunition items may have differences in the location of markings, but all markings
will include basically the same information.

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These 105mm projectiles have the same markings as the 155mm projectile, with some
differences in location. The DODIC is not on smaller items because there is not enough space, but the
entire NSN and DODIC is on the container for the ammunition. The 155mm projectiles have no
containers.

INTERPRETING AMMUNITION COLOR CODES

Ammunition items can be further identified by the color of the paint used on them. It is essential
that ammunition personnel know what each color indicates and how color codes are used.
The main reason for painting a projectile is to prevent rust. However, painting is also used to identify the
various types of ammunition.

Color by Primary Use

Ammunition items are painted primarily to prevent rust. The colors used are for camouflage, to
identify the primary use of the item, and to identify hazardous fillers used in the ammunition. These are
the colors used to indicate primary use of ammunition items:

Yellow. High-explosive.
Brown. Low-explosive.
Gray. Chemical.
Light-green. Smoke.
Light-red. Incendiary.
White. Illuminating-pyrotechnic.
Black. Armor-defeating.
Aluminum (silver). Countermeasure.
Blue. Practice.

The most commonly used color, olive drab, is not even listed, because it has no significance.
Olive drab is used only for camouflage.

The primary use color may be on the markings or on a band around the item when it is not
practical to use it as a base color. The base color is olive drab, which has no meaning; but the yellow
markings clearly designate it a high-explosive projectile.

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Bands

Bands are usually used to identify types of components used in the item. However, in some
cases, the color of the band identifies the primary use. The colors used and their meanings are:

Yellow. Contains a high-explosive burster. (HE bursters are used to rupture the case and disperse the
smoke mixture, toxic chemical agent, or antipersonnel flechettes.)
Brown. Contains a low-explosive charge. (Low-explosive charges are usually used for spotting or
expelling the payload.)
Dark-green. Contains a toxic chemical agent.
Dark-red. Contains a riot-control chemical agent.
Violet. Contains an incapacitating chemical agent.
White. Indicates an illuminating munition.
Black. On a high-explosive plastic (HEP) projectile, means armor-defeating.

Combining Color Codes

On some types of ammunition, several color codes may be used on the same round of
ammunition to identify the primary use, type of components, and hazardous materials. Identify the color
codes in the following order:

1. Base color. Light-green means the primary use is smoke.

2. Band. Yellow band means this item contains a high-explosive burster.
3. Markings. Light-red markings mean that this item also has incendiary effects.

Now, if you combine your knowledge of color codes with what you learned about markings, you
can identify this item completely. It is a 155mm howitzer smoke projectile with a white phosphorous (WP)
filler and a high-explosive burster charge.

Standard Color Codes

Study figure 6 to learn how colors are applied to the various types of projectiles.

1. Read the type of projectile.

2. Read the colors used.
3. Compare these colors with other colors .
4. Read the notes on each projectile.
5. Note how the primary use color code and the component color codes are used.
Exceptions
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You probably noticed that some of the items in figure 6 had white markings but were not
illuminating and some items had black markings but were not armor-defeating. This is because some
colors have no significance as they are applied, including the following:

White. When used on guided missiles, mine dispensers, and rocket launchers.

Black or white. When used for lettering or special markings. [For example: white markings on
nonexplosive armor-defeating, antipersonnel (apers), practice, or dummy munitions, and black markings
on illuminating, smoke, incendiary, leaflet, and tracking munitions have no significance.]

Gray, black, green, or white. When used on underwater ammunition.

Unpainted. The natural color of ammunition items has no significance.

Special Color Codes

Some ammunition items have colors applied that do not comply with standard color coding. Examples
include:
Smoke grenades. If a smoke grenade is to emit colored smoke while functioning, the color of the top of
the grenade will be the same as that of the smoke-yellow, red, green, or violet.
Signals and flares (pyrotechnics). The color of the flare or star clusters is indicated on pyrotechnics by
a band of C's in the same color.
Tracer ammunition. Some projectiles containing tracers have a series of T's above the markings of the
projectile in the same color as the flame of the tracer.

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Special Symbols

Special symbols are used in conjunction with color codes to indicate some special
features of an item. Examples include:

Diamond band. When a band of diamond-shaped symbols is painted around a projectile, the color of the
diamonds designates the type of payload. White diamonds mean that the item is filled with flechettes or
small metal spikes. The band of white diamonds may be accompanied by a yellow band indicating that a
high-explosive charge is used to scatter the flechettes or spikes. Yellow diamonds mean that the item is
filled with smaller items of explosive submunitions to be expelled from the projectile during flight. These
items are often known as improved conventional munitions (ICM).

Triangle band. Yellow triangles forming a band around a projectile mean that it is filled with small
explosive mines to be expelled and scattered during flight.

Broken band. Broken bands around the circumference of a projectile indicate binary ammunition items.
"Binary" means that the item contains two separate elements that remain inert until mixed. A yellow
broken band indicates that the item contains explosive binary elements. A dark-green broken band
indicates that the item contains toxic chemical binary elements. Note: These bands are not to be confused
with the weight zone markings

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EXTERIOR COMPONENTS OF AN ARTILLERY PROJECTILE

Since the first projectile was manufactured, the demand for greater accuracy and greater range
has influenced projectile design. Without specifically constructed shapes and exterior parts, there would
be no standard ballistic characteristics for any group or type of projectiles. A lack of ballistic
standardization would prevent the computation of firing tables. Modern projectiles are designed for
maximum stability and minimum air resistance in flight.

a. Eyebolt Lifting Plugs and Fuze Well Plugs. A separate-loading projectile has an eyebolt lifting plug.
Other types of projectiles have metal hex-head or plastic closing plugs. The plug is for lifting; to keep the
fuze well clean, dry, and free of foreign matter; and to protect the fuze well threads. The plug is removed,
and the appropriate fuze is inserted at the firing position. Some special-purpose semifixed projectiles are
issued with the fuzes already assembled in the projectile.
b. Ogive. The ogive is the curved portion of a projectile between the fuze well and the bourrelet. It
streamlines the forward portion of the projectile. The curve of the ogive usually is the arc of the circle, the
center of which is located in a line perpendicular to the axis of the projectile and the radius of which is
generally 6 to 11 calibers.
c. Bourrelet. The bourrelet is an accurately machined surface that is slightly larger than the body and
located immediately to the rear of the ogive. It centers the forward part of the projectile in the tube and
bears on the lands of the tube. When the projectile travels through the bore, only the bourrelet and the
rotating band of the projectile bear on the lands of the tube.
d. Body. The body is the cylindrical portion of the projectile between the bourrelet and the rotating band. It
is machined to a smaller diameter than the bourrelet to reduce the projectile surface in contact with the
lands of the bore. The body contains most of the projectile filler.
e. Rotating Band. The rotating band is a cylindrical ring of comparatively soft metal that is pressed into a
knurled, or roughened, groove near the base of the projectile. It mates with the forcing cone of the tube to
eliminate gas wash (blow-by) and to provide forward obturation. The rotating band, in conjunction with the
rifling of the tube, imparts spin to the moving projectile. A properly rammed separate-loading projectile is

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held in the tube at all angles of elevation by the wedging action of the rotating band against the forcing
cone.
f. Obturating Band. On some projectiles, there is a nylon obturating band below the rotating band to help
in forward obturation. Two examples of 155-mm projectiles with this type of a band are the illuminating
round and the high-explosive rocket-assisted round.
g. Base. The base is that portion of the projectile below the rotating band or obturating band. The most
common type is known as the boattail base. This type of base streamlines the base of the projectile, gives
added stability in flight, and minimizes deceleration by reducing the vacuum-forming eddy currents in the
wake of the projectile as it passes through the atmosphere.
h. Base Cover. The base cover is a metal cover that is crimped, caulked or welded to the base of the
projectile. It prevents hot gases of the propelling charge from coming in contact with the explosive filler of
the projectile through possible flaws in the metal of the base.

Types
Guns are generally classified according to use, size, and tradition. This varies among the military services.
The basic distinction is between small arms and artillery. Any gun below a 20- millimeter bore size is
generally classified as a small arm. The Army distinguishes among mortars, howitzers, and guns. Mortars
give high trajectories with short range and are usually loaded from the muzzle. Howitzers give medium-to-
high trajectories, and guns provide flat-to-medium trajectories of longer range. Bore size is usually given
in millimeters.

A gun can be considered as a particular kind of heat engine. In operation, the propellant charge located in
the gun chamber is ignited by the primer. Gases produced by combustion of the propellant grains cause a
rapid buildup of pressure. When a certain pressure is reached (shot-start pressure) which overcomes the
forces of projectile weight and engraving of the projectile in the rifling, the projectile begins to move toward
the muzzle which causes an increase in chamber volume. A maximum pressure is reached a few inches
from the origin of rifling followed by a decrease in pressure all the way to the muzzle. At the muzzle, the
pressure is 10 percent to 30 percent of the maximum pressure, depending on the geometry of the
propellant grains.

Artillery ammunition can be classified in many ways. One classification is based on the manner in which
the components are assembled for loading and firing. Complete rounds of artillery ammunition are known
as either fixed, semi-fixed or separate loading.

Fixed – used in guns, cannon and recoilless rifle. This type of ammunition the complete round is issued
with cartridge case containing a non-adjustable propelling charge and a primer permanently crimped or
otherwise attached to the projectile.

Semi-fixed ammunition is characterized by an adjustable propelling charge. The propellant is divided

into increments, or charges, and each increment of propellant is contained in a cloth bag. All of the cloth
bags are held together by an acrylic cord, and are stored in the cartridge case. The primer is an integral
part of the cartridge case, and is located on the base. Semi-fixed ammunition may be issued fuzed or
unfuzed. Semi-fixed ammunition is used in 105mm howitzers. The ammunition is shipped in a wooden
crate, with two fiber tubes in each crate. The fiber tubes are sealed at each end with tape. Upon removing
the tape, the cannoneer will place the heavy end down first, and remove the projectile from the fiber tube.
Next, the cartridge case is removed. Both the projectile and canister MUST REMAIN in their fiber cups
until firing.

Separate loading ammunition has four separate components: primer, propellant, projectile, and fuze.
The four components are issued separately. Upon preparation for firing, the projectile and propellant are
loaded into the howitzer in two separate operations. Separate loading ammunition is used in 155mm
howitzers.
Separeted ammunition – used in tank and anti-aircraft. Consist of a sealed projectile and sealed primed
cartridge case containing a propelling charge. The propelling charge is not adjustable – the cartridge
case and the projectile are lifted on to the loading tray is two separate operation. The complete round in
loaded into the gun and round as a unit.

There are two explosive trains in each conventional round of artillery ammunition; the
PROPELLING CHARGE EXPLOSIVE TRAIN, and the PROJECTILE EXPLOSIVE TRAIN. The projectile

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reaches the target area by the power obtained from the propelling charge explosive train. The function of
the projectile in the target area depends on the type of projectile explosive train.
The propelling charge explosive train consists of the primer, igniter, and propellant. The propelling
charge explosive train is initiated by the primer, which is a small amount of very sensitive explosive. The
primer is very sensitive to shock, friction, spark, and heat, and must be kept protected and away from
other ammunition components. In separate loading ammunition, the primer is a separate item of issue.
The igniter provides hot flaming gases and particles to ignite the propelling charge. The igniter consists of
black powder or Clean Burning Igniter (CBI). The igniter is very hygroscopic and subject to rapid
deterioration on absorption of moisture. If kept dry, however, it retains its explosive properties indefinitely.
The igniter for semi-fixed ammunition is an integral part of the primer. It consists of a perforated tube filled
with black powder and is permanently mounted in the cartridge case. In separate loading ammunition, the
igniter is in a circular red pancake shaped bag sewn to the base increment of the propellant. When ignited
by the primer, the igniter sends hot flaming gases around the charge to ignite the propellant.
A propellant is a large amount of insensitive but powerful explosive that propels the projectile to
the target. Semi-fixed ammunition propellant is generally issued with seven increments numbered 1
through 7, and connected by a thin acrylic cord. Each increment is a different size because each
increment has a different premeasured amount of propellant. Increment 1 and 2 are single perforated and
increments 3-7 are multi-perforated. Separate loading ammunition propellants are issued as a separate
unit of issue in sealed canisters to protect the propellant. The amount of propellant to be fired with artillery
ammunition is varied by the number of propellant increments. The charge selected is based on the range
to the target and the tactical situation.

Types of Projectiles
Projectiles can be broadly classified according to three main types: spin-stabilized, fin-stabilized, and
rocket assisted (both fin- and spin-stabilized). Formal military
classification is based on the intended use of the projectile and the
composition of the explosive charge (i.e., antipersonnel, antitank,
and incendiary). Some very significant progress in projectile design
has been made in the past few years.

SPIN-STABILIZED PROJECTILES Most guns in use today use

spin-stabilized projectiles. Spinning a projectile promotes flight
stability. Spinning is obtained by firing the projectiles through a rifled
tube. The projectile engages the rifling by means of a rotating band
normally made of copper. The rotating band is engaged by the lands
and grooves. At a nominal muzzle velocity of 2800 feet per second,
spin rates on the order of 250 revolutions per second are
encountered. Spin-stabilized projectiles are full bore (flush with the
bore walls) and are limited approximately to a 5:1 length-to-diameter ratio. They perform very well at
relatively low trajectories (less than 45° quadrant elevation). In high trajectory applications they tend to
overstabilize (maintain the angle at which they were fired) and, therefore, do not follow the trajectory
satisfactorily.

FIN-STABILIZED PROJECTILES These

projectiles obtain stability through the use of
fins located at the aft end of the projectile.
Normally, four to six fins are employed.
Additional stability is obtained by imparting
some spin (approximately 20
revolutions/second) to the projectile by
canting the leading edge of the fins. Fin-
stabilized projectiles are very often subcaliber.
A sabot, wood or metal fitted around the
projectile, is used to center the projectile in
the bore and provide a gas seal. Such
projectiles vary from 10:1 to 15:1 in length-to-
diameter ratio. Fin-stabilized projectiles are
advantageous because they follow the
trajectory very well at high-launch angles, and
they can be designed with very low drag thereby increasing range and/or terminal velocity. However, fin-

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stabilized projectiles are disadvantageous because the extra length of the projectile must be
accommodated and the payload volume is comparatively low in relation to the projectile length.

ROCKET-ASSISTED PROJECTILES There are two main reasons for developing rocket-assisted
projectiles: (1) to extend the range over standard gun systems, and (2) to allow for lighter mount and
barrel design and reduce excessive muzzle flash and smoke by reducing the recoil and setback forces of
standard gun systems. Since the ranges are different, the above two objectives represent opposite
approaches in the development of rocket-assisted projectiles. Normally, one or the other establishes the
performance of the rocket-assisted projectile under development although some compromise in the two
approaches may be established by the design objectives.

EFFECT OF PROJECTILES
Blast
A blast warhead is one that is designed to achieve target damage primarily from blast effect.
When a high explosive detonates, it is converted almost instantly into a gas at very high pressure and
temperature. Under the pressure of the gases thus generated, the weapon case expands and breaks into
fragments. The air surrounding the casing is compressed and a shock (blast) wave is transmitted into it.
Typical initial values for a high-explosive weapon are 200 kilobars of pressure (1 bar = 1 atmosphere) and
5,000 degrees celsius.
The energetic materials used by Department of Defense munitions produce an exothermic
reaction defined either as a deflagration or a detonation. A deflagration is an exothermic reaction that
propagates from the burning gases to the unreacted material by conduction, convection, and radiation. In
this process, the combustion zone progresses through the material at a rate that is less than the velocity
of sound in the unreacted material.
In contrast, a detonation is an exothermic reaction that is characterized by the presence of a
shock wave in the material that establishes and maintains the reaction. A distinctive difference is that the
reaction zone propagates at a rate greater than sound velocity in the unreacted material. Every material
capable of detonating has a characteristic velocity that is under fixed conditions of composition,
temperature, and density.
The violent release of energy from a detonation in a gaseous medium gives a sudden pressure
increase in that medium. The pressure disturbance, termed the blast wave, is characterized by an almost
instantaneous rise from the ambient pressure to a peak incident pressure (Pso). This pressure increase,
or shock front, travels radially from the burst point with a diminishing velocity that always is in excess of
the sonic velocity of the medium. Gas molecules making up the front move at lower velocities. This latter
particle velocity is associated with a "dynamic pressure," or the pressure formed by the winds produced
by the shock front.
As the shock front expands into increasingly larger volumes of the medium, the peak incident
pressure at the front decreases and the duration of the pressure increases. If the shock wave impinges on
a rigid surface oriented at an angle to the direction of propagation of the wave, a reflected pressure is
instantly developed on the surface and the pressure is raised to a value that exceeds the incident
pressure. The reflected pressure is a function of the pressure in the incident wave and the angle formed
between the rigid surface and the plane of the shock front.
When an explosion occurs within a structure, the peak pressure associated with the initial shock
front will be extremely high and, in turn, will be amplified by reflections within the structure. In addition, the
accumulation of gases from the explosion will exert additional pressures and increase the load duration
within the structure. The combined effects of both pressures eventually may destroy the structure if it is
not strengthened sufficiently or adequate venting for the gas and the shock pressure is not provided, or
both. For structures that have one or more strengthened walls, venting for relief of excessive gas or shock
pressures, or both, may be provided by means of openings in or frangible construction of the remaining
walls or roof, or both. This type of construction will permit the blast wave from an internal explosion to spill
over onto the exterior ground surface. These pressures, referred to as exterior or leakage pressures, once
released from their confinement, expand radially and act on structures or persons, or both, on the other
side of the barrier.
Fragmentation
The study of ballistics, the science of the motion of projectiles, has contributed significantly to the
design of fragmentation projectiles. Specifically, terminal ballistics studies attempt to determine the laws
and conditions governing the velocity and distribution of fragments, the sizes and shapes that result from
bursting different containers, and the damage aspects of the bursting charge fragmentation.

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Approximately 30% of the energy released by the explosive detonation is used to fragment the
case and impart kinetic energy to the fragments. The balance of available energy is used to create a
shock front and blast effects. The fragments are propelled at high velocity, and after a short distance they
overtake and pass through the shock wave. The rate at which the velocity of the shock front
accompanying the blast decreases is generally much greater than the decrease in velocity of fragments,
which occurs due to air friction. Therefore, the advance of the shock front lags behind that of the
fragments. The radius of effective fragment damage, although target dependent, thus exceeds consid-
erably the radius of effective blast damage in an air burst.
Whereas the effects of an idealized blast payload are attenuated by a factor roughly equal to 1/R3
(R is measured from the origin), the attenuation of idealized fragmentation effects will vary as 1/R2 and
1/R, depending upon the specific design of the payload. Herein lies the principle advantage of a fragment-
ation payload: it can afford a greater miss distance and still remain effective because its attenuation is
less.

Anti-personnel fragmentation munitions are designed to destroy or maim personnel or to damage

material enough to render it inoperable. In the area of field artillery, the flechette or beehive round is an
example of an anti-personnel projectile. The payload in this projectile consists of 8,000 steel-wire, fin-
stabilized darts. Upon detonation the darts, or flechettes, are sprayed radially from the point of detonation,
normally within sixty feet of the ground. It is extremely effective against personnel in the open or in dense
foliage.

Shaped Charge
The discovery of what is variously referred to as the shaped charge effect, the hollow charge
effect, the cavity effect, or the Munroe effect, dates back to the 1880s in this country. Dr. Charles Munroe,
while working at the Naval Torpedo Station at Newport, Rhode Island, in the 1880s, discovered that if a
block of guncotton with letters countersunk into its surface was detonated with its lettered surface against
a steel plate, the letters were indented into the surface of the steel. The essential features of this effect
were also observed in about 1880 in both Germany and Norway, although no great use was made of it,
and it was temporarily forgotten.

A shaped charge projectile consists basically of a hollow liner of metal material, usually copper or
aluminum of conical, hemispherical, or other shape, backed on the convex side by explosive. A container,
fuze, and detonating device are included.

When this projectile strikes a target, the fuze detonates the charge from the rear. A detonation
wave sweeps forward and begins to collapse the metal cone liner at its apex. The collapse of the cone
results in the formation and ejection of a continuous high-velocity molten jet of liner material. Velocity of
the tip of the jet is on order of 8,500 meters per sec, while the trail-ing end of the jet has a velocity on the
order of 1,500 meters per sec. This produces a velocity gradient that tends to stretch out or lengthen the
jet. The jet is then followed by a slug that consists of about 80% of the liner mass. The slug has a velocity
on the order of 600 meters per sec. When the jet strikes a target of armor plate or mild steel, pressures in
the range of hundreds of kilobars are produced at the point of contact. This pressure produces stresses
far above the yield strength of steel, and the target material flows like a fluid out of the path of the jet. This
phenomenon is called hydrodynamic penetration. There is so much radial momentum associated with the
flow that the difference in diameter between the jet and the hole it produces depends on the
characteristics of the target material. A larger diameter hole will be made in mild steel than in armor plate
because the density and hardness of armor plate is greater. The depth of penetration into a very thick slab
of mild steel will also be greater than that into homogeneous armor. In general, the depth of penetration
depends upon five factors:
 Length of jet
 Density of the target material
 Hardness of target material
 Density of the jet
 Jet precision (straight vs. divergent)
The longer the jet, the greater the depth of penetration. Therefore, the greater the standoff
distance (distance from target to base of cone) the better. This is true up to the point at which the jet
particulates or breaks up (at 6 to 8 cone diameters from the cone base). Particulation is a result of the
velocity gradient in the jet, which stretches it out until it breaks up. Jet precision refers to the straightness
of the jet. If the jet is formed with some oscillation or wavy motion, then depth of penetration will be
reduced. This is a function of the quality of the liner and the initial detonation location accuracy. The

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effectiveness of shaped charge warheads is reduced when they are caused to rotate. Spin-stabilized
projectiles generally cannot use shaped-charge projectiles.

Pyrotechnics
Pyrotechnics are typically employed for signaling, illuminating, or marking targets.
 Illumination--These warheads usually contain a flare or magnesium flare candle as the
payload, which is expelled by a small charge and is parachuted to the ground. During its descent the flare
is kindled. The illuminating warhead is thus of great usefulness during night attacks in pointing out enemy
fortifications. Because these flares are difficult to extinguish if accidentally ignited, extreme caution in their
handling is required.
 Smoke--These munitions are used primarily to screen troop movements and play a vital
role in battlefield tactics. A black powder charge ignites and expels canisters that may be designed to emit
white, yellow, red, green, or violet smoke.
 Markers--White phosphorus is commonly employed as a pay-load to mark the position of
the enemy. It can be very dangerous, especially in heavy concentrations. The material can self-ignite in
air, cannot be extinguished by water, and will rekindle upon subsequent exposure to air. Body contact can
produce serious burns. Copper sulphate prevents its re-ignition.

Cluster
Cluster munitions are canisters containing dozens or hundreds of small bomblets for use against
a variety of targets, such as personnel, armored vehicles, or ships. Once in the air, the canisters open,
spreading the bomblets out in a wide pattern. The advantage of this type of warhead is that it gives a wide
area of coverage, which allows for a greater margin of error in delivery.

Flechettes
Flechettes are fin stabilized steel projectiles similar in appearance to arrows. During the Korean
War the Chinese army tactic of human wave attacks against US lines of defence prompted interest in
flechette projectiles in single and multiple projectile systems for small arms and antipersonnel (APERS)
use. Flechettes have a performance criteria very different from the conventional rifle bullet. Typical
modern flechettes are small light weight steel projectiles, and the velocity lost to air resistance is generally
375 fps. per 100 Meters of flight. Unlike rifle bullets, flechettes are not spin stabilized, but use fins to
achieve level flight. The flechette's long body looses rigidity on target impact and bends into a hook, often
breaking off the fin portion creating an additional wound. Flechette munitions include projectiles for use in
the M16 rifle, CAWS (close assault weapons system), and 12 gage shotgun, as well as the 105mm
M101A1/M102 howitzer, 2.75 in. FFAR (folding fin aircraft rocket), and the 70mm Hydra-70 FFAR.
ARTILLERY FUZE
Fuze - Is a mechanical device used with a projectile to cause it to function as required.

 Boresafe Fuze - Type of fuze having an interrupter in the explosive train that prevents the fuze
from functioning until after the projectile has cleared the muzzle of the weapon. A "non-boresafe fuze"
does not have this feature.
 Base Fuze - Fuze located at the bottom end or base of the shell. This is the most common
location for AP and SAP projectiles as it avoids weakening the nose of the shell and protects the fuze from
damage as the projectile passes through armor. Some HE/HC shells have both nose and base fuzes as
this increases the chances of the shell detonating under differing conditions.
 Contact Fuze - A fuze initiated only after it impacts the target. There are two general types of
contact fuzes, "delay" and "super quick".
 Delay Fuze - A contact fuze that detonates the projectile only after it has impacted and penetrated
some distance into the target. A "short delay" means that the fuze initiates detonation within a few
thousandths (0.00X) of a second after impact.
 Nose Fuze - Fuze is located at the top point of the shell. This is the most common location for
HC and HE shells as the fuzes can be set to allow little or no time delay and thus detonate the bursting
charge immediately upon impact. Many nose fuzes have "auxiliary detonating" fuzes behind them. These
provide a heavier shock which actually detonates the bursting charge. Auxiliary fuzes also act as a safety
feature by preventing the projectiles from exploding should the nose fuze be accidentally actuated prior to
the arming of the auxiliary detonating fuze.
 Proximity Fuze - Fuze containing a simple radar that can detect the nearness (proximity) of a
target. Also called "influence fuze." . These fuzes are widely used for anti-personnel rounds for land
artillery as they eliminate the need to accurately set a time fuze to explode the projectile at a fixed
distance above the target

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 Super Quick Fuze or Instantaneous Fuze - A contact fuze designed to detonate the projectile
before it has penetrated any distance into the target. Super quick fuzes are commonly used on anti-
aircraft rounds that are designed to shred the outer airframe.
 Time Fuze - Fuze has an adjustable mechanism - usually an incremented dial or "ring" or, in more
modern fuzes, an electronic timer - which is used to set a delay time. Commonly used for AA projectiles,
smoke and illumination rounds, this type of fuze is used to set the time between when the shell is fired
and when it detonates.

Gaine (Booster) - An explosive container detonated by the fuze and which in turn detonates the bursting

CARE AND HANDLING OF AMMUNITION

If ammunition is to function properly, it must be handled properly. Some of the basic principles of
proper handling are listed below:
(1) Never tumble, drag, throw, or drop individual projectiles or boxes of projectiles.
(2) Do not allow smoking, open flames, or other fire hazards around ammunition storage areas.
(3) Inspect each round before it is loaded for firing. Dirty ammunition can damage the weapon,
cause the breech not to close, or affect the accuracy of the round.
(4) Keep the ammunition dry and cool.
(5) Never make unauthorized alterations or mix components of one lot with another.
(6) If a round has been rammed and then must be extracted, return it to the battalion ammunition
section. The rotating band or the fuze may be damaged and should not be fired.
(7) Leave the eyebolt lifting plug or closing plug screwed into the fuze well until the round is to be
fuzed.

PROJECTILES
a. Projectiles must be inspected to ensure the following conditions:
(1) There is no leakage of the contents.
(2) The projectile is correctly assembled.
(3) The rotating band is in proper condition. If the rotating band is stained or discolored, that minor
deficiency can be removed with fine sandpaper or steel wool. Projectiles with rotating bands
which have minor dents or cuts can be fired. However, if dents or cuts go through the band, the
round should be rejected by the using unit. The grommets must be secured and tight to prevent
nicks and scarring of the rotating band or obturation band.
b. Most HE projectiles issued for use with proximity VT fazes are standard projectiles with deep fuze
cavities to accommodate the longer VT fuze. Each of these projectiles is issued with a removable
supplementary charge so that the projectile may be used with an impact, a mechanical time or a long
intrusion (VT) fuze. The supplementary charge is removed only when the projectile is used with a long
intrusion VT fuze. It must be in place when the projectile is used with a mechanical time fuze, impact fuze,
or short intrusion VT fuze.

CAUTION
Do not try to remove the supplementary charge by any means other than the lifting loop. If the charge
cannot be removed by the lifting loop, the round may be disposed of or fired with an impact or an MTSQ
fuze. The deep cavity may be lined with a paper tube and bottom cup, which help support the high-
explosive filler. This lining should not be removed at any time.

c. Because of their contents, toxic chemical and the WP shells require special handling and storage.
(1) Chemical rounds.
(a) When toxic chemicals are being fired, all personnel in the area should wear protective
masks and anyone handling the shell should wear gloves.
(b) An ample supply of decontaminating agents should be available in case they are
needed.
(c) If possible, these shells should be stored away from other types of ammunition and
downwind of the battery area.
(2) White phosphorus. WP rounds (except for the M825 and M825A1) should be stored upright on
their base at all times. The filler of these rounds will melt at a temperature of 111.4°F. As a result, the filler
shifts and the ballistic characteristics of the rounds change. The WP shell should be in an area free of any
combustible materials and away from other ammunition if possible. (This also applies to the M825
projectiles.)
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FUZES
a. The specific fuzes available for each weapon are discussed in the technical manual for the
weapon.
b. Fuzes are sensitive to shock and must be handled with care.
c. Before fuzing a round, inspect the threads of the fuze and fuze well for cleanliness and
serviceability.
d. The fuze should be screwed into the fuze well slowly until flush with the nose of the projectile.
Using the M16 or M18 fuze wrench (as appropriate), back the fuze up one-quarter turn, then snap the
fuze wrench back to secure the fuze.
e. After tightening the fuze, ensure that there is no gap between the nose of the projectile and the
fuze. If a gap exists, remove the fuze from the projectile and segregate both from the ammunition.
Premature detonation may occur if a fuze is not properly seated.
f. A projectile fuzed with a time fuze should not be lifted with a hand around the fuze. A slip of the
hand might change the fuze setting.
g. Normally, fuzes containing superquick elements should not be used during rainstorms or
hailstorms. They may detonate if struck by rain or hail. However, a new rain insensitive fuze, M739A1,
has been developed and is available to be fired through storms with reduced possibility of premature
functioning.
Note: Units must be aware of the ammunition restrictions that apply to their caliber of weapons.
Restrictions are in the technical manual for the weapon.
h. To prevent the accidental functioning of the point-detonating elements of fuzes M564 and
M548, the fuzes must not be dropped, rolled, or struck under any circumstances. Special care must be
taken to ensure that a fuzed round does not strike the breech of a weapon during loading.
i. Any mechanical time fuze that is set and not fired must be reset to SAFE; and the safety wires
(if applicable) must be replaced before the fuze is repacked in the original carton.
Note: Never fire a projectile without a fuze or with a fuze that is not authorized for that projectile.

PROPELLING CHARGES
a. Procedures for preparing and verifying propelling charges are published in respective weapon
technical manuals. These procedures are safe, simple, and easy to train.
CAUTION
When firing multiple-round missions, the possibility of firing an incorrect charge is greater than when firing
single-round missions because of increased tempo and because sections are rarely allowed to fire multiple-
round missions during training. Procedures in the weapon technical manual always must be used.
b. Propelling charges, or powder, like other components of ammunition, must be kept cool and dry.
Powder containers must be closed tight to keep moisture out.
c. Propellant bags must be firm, clean, and well laced or tied; and the increments must be inserted in the
proper sequence.
d. Propellant must be inspected before the charge is prepared. The following are examples of things to
check:
 Missing increments, extra increments and/or incorrect sequencing (order) of increments.
 Increment bags. Bags must not be damaged to the extent that black powder or propellant spills
out.
 Rotting (chemical odor).
 The red igniter pad on the base of the base charge (155-mm propelling charges).
e. Do not fire unused powder increments. They should be removed to some storage area (commonly
called a powder pit) preferably 30 to 40 feet from the nearest weapon, until they can be burned or
otherwise disposed of. The procedures for burning powder are discussed below:
(1) For safety, select a burning site at least 200 feet from grass and loose debris as well as
personnel and equipment.
(2) Determine the direction of the wind.
(3) Place charge increments in a single layer row not more than 12 inches wide.

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(4) Arrange the row so that the powder will burn into the wind.

(5) Lay a train of combustible material about 15 feet long, perpendicular to, and at the downwind
end of the row of charge increments. Light this train at the end farthest from the increments.
f. Burning powder creates a very large flash and a lot of smoke. In a tactical environment, the platoon
leader must ensure that burning powder does not compromise the camouflage and concealment effort.

FLASH REDUCERS
a. For some propellants, separate flash reducers containing black powder and potassium sulfate must be
used to reduce flash at night. The flash reducers speed up the combustion of unburned propellant gases,
which helps prevent excessive muzzle blast.
b. Flash reducers absorb moisture readily, so they must be kept dry. Keep them off of damp ground and
sealed in their containers until needed for use.
c. Destroy flash reducers. Flash reducers the highly flammable. It is critical that they be disposed of
properly to prevent injury.
d. The M119A2 charge 7 red bag propellent for 155 mm is manufactured with flash reducers attached. Do
not remove these from the propelling charge.
PRIMERS
a. Primers are sensitive to both shock and moisture. Primers for separate-loading ammunition should be
kept away from the propellant bags and left in their sealed containers until needed.
Note: Older series propellants may contain the MK4A2 primer. This primer is not authorized to be fired with
any howitzer currently in use. Ensure that these primers are not fired and are turned in to the
ammunition section.
b. Primers for semifixed ammunition are attached to the base of the cartridge case. The best way to
protect them is to leave them covered with a fiber container cap until needed.
c. Before use, inspect all primers for signs of corrosion. If a seal has been broken, it is very likely that the
primer has been affected by moisture and should be turned in.

CARTRIDGE CASES
a. The cartridge case of semifixed ammunition
should be checked for corrosion. Light brown
staining is normal oxidation; but black, green, yellow, or
white stains mean heavy corrosion, which must be
cleaned off as soon as possible.
b. Cartridges must be checked for cracks, bulges,
and burs.
c. The primer must be flush with the base of the
cartridge. If it sticks out too far, it is dangerous. If it sits
in too far, the round will not fire.

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SEGREGATION OF AMMUNITION LOTS

a. Different lots of propellant burn at different rates and give different effects in the target area. For this
reason, the registration corrections derived from one lot do not necessarily apply to another lot.
Ammunition must be segregated by lot.
b. The FDC designates the lot of ammunition to be fired for each mission (or it is standardized). Therefore,
the lot designator should be prominently displayed for each stack of ammunition.
c. Whether stored in the field, on vehicles, or at an ammunition supply point (ASP), different lots of
ammunition must be conspicuously marked.

FIELD STORAGE OF AMMUNITION

a. The four greatest hazards to ammunition in the battery area are weather, enemy fire, improper
handling, and careless smokers. Regardless of the method of storage, these hazards must be considered.
Specific storage techniques are discussed later, but here are some general considerations:
(1) Stack ammunition by type, lot number, and weight zone.

(2) If ammunition is being stored on the ground, use good strong dunnage at least 6 inches high
under each stack.

(3) Keep the ammunition dry and out of direct sunlight by storing it in a vehicle or covering it with
a tarpaulin. Be sure adequate ventilation is provided.

(4) Provide ammunition, if off-loaded, as much protection from enemy indirect fires as time and
available materials allow. If sandbags are used for protection, keep the walls at least 6 inches from the
stacks and the roof at least 18 inches from the stacks to ensure proper ventilation.

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b. Particular attention must be paid to ammunition temperature. Most ammunition components can be
stored at temperatures as low as -80° F for periods of not more than 3 days and as high as +160° F for
periods of not more than 4 hours per day. An increase in malfunctions may be experienced with some VT
fuzes when the temperature is below 0° or above 120° F. Powder temperature affects the muzzle velocity
of a fired round and is a matter of frequent concern to the FDC. At least two howitzer sections should be
designated to keep track of the powder temperature. A powder thermometer is inserted into the top
powder increment in the canister, and care must be taken to ensure the thermometer does not touch
metal.
Note: Cannon sections must be careful not to fire the powder thermometer.
c. Only enough ammunition to meet current needs should be prepared for firing.
STORAGE AND TRANSPORTATION TECHNIQUES
a. In SP units, the M992 combat ammunition tracked vehicle is the companion vehicle to the howitzer. It
serves as an area from which to service the weapon as well as a storage area for ammunition. This
vehicle should be positioned with its howitzer and replenished in the battery area by the ammunition
section. Ammunition should be left in pallets until needed for use.
Note: Be sure pallets are adequately cribbed and secured to prevent them from shifting during movement.

b. To increase the ammunition-carrying capability of cannon batteries, additional M332 ammunition trailers
are authorized in the TOE. Although mobility may be degraded somewhat, an M332 trailer should be
pulled by each of the ammunition vehicles currently shown in various TOEs. These are the M992 and the
2½-and 5-ton trucks. These 1½-ton trailers can--
 Increase organic hauling capability,
 Facilitate resupply and backhaul operations, and
 Permit ammunition component segregation (to reduce the battery's vulnerability to counterfire).

c. In towed units, the prime mover, loaded with ammunition, should be positioned near the howitzer.
Ammunition should be left loaded until it is prepared for firing. Other ammunition is stored on the battery
ammunition section vehicles, or at a battery ammunition dump. The establishment of a battery ammunition
dump is a matter of command decision, because it seriously impairs the mobility of the battery.

ACCIDENTS
Generally, firing accidents are serious, so all supervisory personnel should know the immediate action to
be taken.
a. If the ammunition or equipment presents further danger, move all personnel out of the area.
b. Do not change any settings on, or modify the position of, the weapon in any way until an investigation
has been completed.
c. Record the lot number of the ammunition involved in the accident or malfunction, and report it to the
battalion ammunition officer. If there is good reason to suspect a particular lot of ammunition, its use
should be suspended.
d. If it is suspected that the propellant was ignited with no recoil of the tube, misfire procedures must
follow. Perhaps no projectile was loaded and the propellant is still burning.

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