General Dynamics (GD) has signed a strategic agreement with Advanced Material Engineering (AME), a subsidiary of ST Kinetics, to manufacture 40mm high-velocity airburst ammunition for the US military.

The ammunition is uniquely different from legacy versions and uses a programmable, time-based fuse technology that computes and programmes the detonation time into the fuse, which counts down to zero and detonates at the intended target point after launch.

ST Kinetics president Sew Chee Jhuen said: "We look forward to bringing our experience in the design and manufacturing of 40mm ammunition and weapons to enrich the partnership."

"This expansion of our manufacturing operations ensures we continue to provide our US Army customer with greater value and integrated solutions."

Designed to be fired from existing US Army grenade launchers such as the Mk19 and MK47, the new ammunition is expected to prove highly effective against concealed and defilade targets.

In addition, it will provide soldiers with the capability to programme ammunition to detonate at a specific distance, greatly increasing the effectiveness, flexibility and lethality of their weapon systems.

General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems vice-president and medium-calibre ammunition and weapons general manager Tim McAuliffe said: "By integrating programmable ammunition with innovative products, such as our next-generation fire control system, we can provide the warfighter with versatility and overmatch capability that is fully interoperable with our weapon systems currently in service.

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"This expansion of our manufacturing operations ensures we continue to provide our US Army customer with greater value and integrated solutions."

ST Kinetics is the parent company of AME, which has developed and fielded a family of 40mm high and low-velocity ammunition designed to meet US military specifications.

Defence Technology