Penetration (military technology)
In the field of military technology , the penetration of armor by projectiles , i.e. the penetration of armor by the kinetic energy of the projectile, is a central research area.
This type of penetration through a medium such as armor is also known as penetration force . Isaac Newton developed a simple but universal approximation formula for the penetration power of impactors. The armor formula is a formula for calculating the penetration power of full metal jacket bullets .
Research into armor-projectile interactions, for example, has led to a large increase in the penetration power of ammunition while maintaining the caliber. There is a constant arms race between improved armor and ammunition. Typical improvements in the penetration properties of ammunition are e.g. B. increased muzzle velocity or higher density of the projectile (tungsten or uranium ammunition ) to increase the cross-sectional load . These are intended to increase the effect of the projectile when it hits the armor and thus facilitate its penetration.
In a figurative sense, the successful penetration of aircraft and missiles into enemy airspace is also referred to as penetration. ICBMs are partly equipped with penetration aids (e.g. decoys, ECM ) to penetrate the enemy missile defense.
See also
- Bunker-breaking weapon
- Projectile effect
- Armor piercing ammunition
- Penetrating power
- Effective range (weapon)