Armed Forces use DM11 ammunition with programmable detonation. VIDEO
The Ukrainian military received DM11 tank fragmentation munitions with programmable detonation.
This was reported by Censor.NET with reference toMilitarny.
It is noted that this is the first first confirmation of the appearance of this type of weapon in the Armed Forces.
In the published video, a tanker of the Leopard 2A6 tank transferred to Ukraine demonstrates an unknown armour-piercing sub-calibre munition and a DM11 fragmentation projectile loaded into the vehicle.
The DM11, also known as the Rh31, is a 120mm high explosive tank programmable munition developed by Defence Munitions International.
"The munition is equipped with a detonator with a programmable timer. After charging, the electronic detonator is programmed to detonate at a time interval determined by the crew when the munition flies over a specific coordinate. The crew can therefore set the detonation point in terms of altitude and distance to achieve an explosion in front of, behind or even above the target.
The DM11 is superior to most Western multipurpose munitions in terms of effectiveness, as it was developed without compromising on armour penetration. The warhead is equipped with a much larger volume of explosive compared to multipurpose munitions. This ensures a greater destructive effect. The main part of the munition contains a block with ready-made tungsten carbide balls. It provides a dense cloud of fragments with high penetrating power in the front projection, which is important during the programmed detonation of the blast in front of the target," the publication explains.
The programmed munition operates in three modes: delayed (mV), open-ended (oV) and point-launched (LSP). The DM11's functionality allows it to effectively engage a wide range of targets. Delayed mode is suitable for engaging targets hiding in cover, while oV is ideal for engaging targets with direct fire, and LSP is ideal for engaging manpower in a large open area.
At the same time, it is noted that Ukrainian tankers will not be able to fully realise the potential of this ammunition. To use DM11 detonation modes, special programming electronics are required. Similar systems are integrated into the Rh120 L55A1 tank gun, which is installed on Leopard 2 tanks in the A7 version, and further modifications that are not in service with the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
The DM11 electronic fuze is factory set to detonate without delay, so it can be used as a conventional fragmentation munition from tanks without fuze programming electronics, including Leopard 2A4, Leopard 2A6 and US M1 Abrams.
