Advanced Multi-Purpose (AMP) – Tank Shell That Can Replace Most Shell

 



Northrop Grumman has developed the M1147 Advanced Multi-Purpose (AMP) 120 mm shell as the next generation high explosive multipurpose round for the US Army’s ABRAMS M1A2 MBT. This new tank ammunition/shell will give ABRAMS tanks a chance to exercise greater mission flexibility and main-gun capability using single ammunition for multiple engagements.

M1147 AMP will replace four 120 mm shell rounds currently in US Army inventory like the M830 High Explosive Anti-Tank Multi-Purpose with Tracer (HEATMP-T), M830A1 HEAT-MP-T, the M1028 Canister (CAN) round, and M908 Obstacle Reducing with Tracer (OR-T) consolidating their capabilities into a single munition. AMP shell is designed to retain the performance of the rounds against light armored vehicles, engaging dismounted ATGM teams at extended ranges, bunkers, personnel, and obstacles.

AMP shell stands out for its antipersonnel airburst capabilities up to a distance of 2 km as well as its capability to breach 8-inch reinforced concrete. It is also compliant with HERO (Hazard of Electromagnetic Radiation to Ordnance) and has the first fully HERO-compliant primer. AMP shell has three defeat modes including Point Detonate (PD), Point Detonate Delay (PDD), and Airburst.

Limited User Trails of AMP have started since October 2021 Current 120 mm shells have effects on some structures but do not ensure efficient entry. AMP will provide the ability to create a breach in a fortified structure allowing soldiers on foot to enter any structure safely. AMP shell will use the same Ammunition Data Link hardware interface integrated into the Abrams tank for the 120-mm M829E4 Kinetic Energy munition. The data link enables direct communication from the tank fire control to the cartridge chambered in the breach.

The AMP round is a game changer as a single tank shell does 4 types of jobs; and presents a significant logistical advantage and an improved Battle Carry capability. Battle Carry is a term used by tank crews during combat when they want to engage the enemy. At the critical moment in combat they load a tank round/shell they think most likely is well suited for that situation to defeat the most likely threat/target in front of them.

It is high time the ARDE lab of DRDO develops a similar kind of tank round/shell compatible for use with tank guns of tanks currently used by the Indian Army. These include the 120 mm smoothbore tank guns of T 72 M/CIA, T 90 S/M; 125 mm rifle bore tank guns of Arjun Mk1/Mk1A and Mk2; as well as the futuristic FMBT/FRCV.

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