High velocity penetration of steel targets

Abstract

Researchers at the U.S. Army Ballistic Research Laboratory (BRL) have conducted a combined experimental and numerical research program in high-velocity penetration aimed at increasing the understanding of penetration mechanics over the striking velocity range between 1.5 and 4 km/s. A judicious combination of ballistic tests and large-scale simulations have been used to evaluate the performance of a family of both monolithic and segmented penetrators against semi-infinite rolled homogeneous armor (RHA). The results of the experimental and numerical programs are discussed.