M855A1 Enhanced Performance Round (EPR) Media Day

Abstract

This briefing provided information on the new M855A1 Enhanced Performance Round (EPR). Soldiers fired ammunition to demonstrate capabilities of the EPR. Participants had the opportunity to shoot the round for themselves. There was the opportunity for hands on inspection of targets. Performance differences were clearly demonstrated. M855 Background: US Army Infantry Center questioned effectiveness of primary 5.56mm ball munition. Basis was field reports from operations in Somalia, Afghanistan, and Iraq. Reports were mixed with some units claiming issues, others were not. After studying problem PM MAS/ARL/ARDEC agreed the M855 was well designed and is good general purpose round. However, some inconsistencies were found inherent in the design. There were physical explanations for field reports of performance issues. There were opportunities to improve performance of these munitions. The Army developed improved methods and tools to evaluate performance of small arms systems. Research Showed: Physical explanations for field issues and opportunities to improve performance. Goal of the program was to incorporate the science used in other ammunition such as Large Caliber into Small Caliber Ammunition.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 04, 2011
Accession Number
ADA549416

Entities

People

  • Jeffrey K. Woods

Organizations

  • Picatinny Arsenal

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Accuracy
  • Afghanistan Conflict
  • Ammunition
  • Armor
  • Armored Vehicles
  • Army
  • Body Armor
  • Corrosion Resistance
  • Materials
  • Military Research
  • Munitions
  • Muzzle Velocity
  • Projectiles
  • Propellants
  • Range Finding
  • Tracer Ammunition
  • Trajectories

Readers

  • Defense Acquisition Program Management
  • Marksmanship and Weaponry.
  • Systems Analysis and Design