Saboted light armor penetrator
The saboted light armor penetrator (SLAP) family of ammunition is designed to penetrate armor more efficiently than standard armor-piercing ammunition.
Design and use
The SLAP design incorporates a polymer sabot, which allows for the use of a tungsten penetrator projectile of a lesser diameter than the original bore. By using the casing of a large cartridge with a lightweight projectile, the velocity of the projectile is greatly increased and the sectional density is improved.
SLAP rounds have been designed for use against lightly armored vehicles and aircraft.
Types of SLAP ammunition
SLAP ammunition is produced in multiple calibers, examples being: 7.62×51mm NATO, 12.7×99mm NATO (.50 BMG) and 14.5×114mm, the former two by the United States and the latter by the People's Republic of China.[1]
- The 7.62×51mm round is designated as the M948 (standard) and M959 (tracer)
- The 12.7×99mm round is designated as the M903 (standard) and M962 (tracer)
- The 14.5×114mm round is designated as DGJ-02 SLAP by the Chinese military.
Production
The SLAP family of ammunition is produced by the Winchester Cartridge Company and Olin Manufacturing. The team began production of the ammunition in 1985. The sabot that contains the sub-caliber is manufactured by Cytec Industries.
See also
- Armour-piercing discarding sabot – the equivalent class of ordnance caliber ammunition.