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

The SLAP ammunition is produced in multiple calibers, examples being: 7.62x51mm 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 7.62mm round is designated as the M948 (standard) and M959 (tracer)
• The .50 BMG round is designated as the M903 (standard) and M962 (tracer)
• The 14.5mm 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.

Possible Precursor

Wz. 35 anti-tank rifle

References