US Army tests cluster-bomb round replacement
A new artillery warhead is being tested by the US Army in an effort to help reduce unwanted casualties caused by cluster-bomb rounds.
Current dual-purpose improved conventional munitions rounds contain hundreds of small cluster bombs that can leave 'duds' unexploded on the battlefield, posing a danger to civilians.
A new M30A1 guided multiple launch rocket system alternate warhead was recently tested in fire exercises at Udairi Training Range in Kuwait. The new round is being implemented to limit duds by replacing the smaller explosives with 180,000 tungsten steel bee-bee-sized balls.
The round, which is effective against light skinned vehicles and personnel, is expected to have applications in antiterrorism operations.
Unlike high explosive rounds that produce large localised explosions and large pieces of shrapnel, the new small pellet round covers a much larger area.
More from Land Warfare
-
![The overlooked ally: Canadian support for Ukraine surpasses some European partners]()
The overlooked ally: Canadian support for Ukraine surpasses some European partners
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Canada has committed more military assistance than France in terms of GDP.
-
![France mulls new turret options to increase its VBCI IFV’s firepower]()
France mulls new turret options to increase its VBCI IFV’s firepower
The proposed enhancements could better position the French Army’s armoured infantry fighting vehicle for future export campaigns.
-
![US Army moves towards calls for bids for medium UGV as competitors warm up]()
US Army moves towards calls for bids for medium UGV as competitors warm up
The US Army’s Medium Modular Equipment Transport Trailer (M-METT) programme is planned to provide a platform between Increment II of Small Multipurpose Equipment Transport and the Palletized Load System.
-
![Why bridging the gap between military and COTS systems is key to seamless defence comms (Studio)]()
Why bridging the gap between military and COTS systems is key to seamless defence comms (Studio)
Technology that enables armed forces to leverage existing network infrastructure can be a game-changer in many combat scenarios.
-
![Europe’s future tank hits targets as MARTE programme gains momentum]()
Europe’s future tank hits targets as MARTE programme gains momentum
An effort to develop a new European main battle tank has passed several milestones on the road to a Preliminary Design Review which is expected within two years.
-
![UK MoD clears British Army’s Ajax saying “no safety concerns when operated properly”]()
UK MoD clears British Army’s Ajax saying “no safety concerns when operated properly”
The British Army’s Ajax armoured personnel carrier has a chequered history but hopes were high when Initial Operating Capability was declared last year. More problems saw operations suspended but the MoD reports it has identified the problems and short- and medium-term solutions.
