Description
This is a fixed cartridge with a fin stabilized high explosive antitank with tracer (HEAT-T) projectile. The projectile incorporates a setback armed, point initiating base detonating (PIBD) fuze containing a piezoelectric (Lucky) crystal and an electric detonator.
The steel body of the projectile is fitted with a plastic obturator and seal, a threaded standoff spike assembly covered by an impact switch assembly (held in place with a collar), a tin and boom assembly and a PIBD fuze. A funnel-shaped copper liner within the body shapes the explosive charge of Composition B. A power supply retained by the impact to the spike assembly, switch assembly is fitted and is connected to the base-detonating fuze in the body. The addition of the impact switch assembly provides for a higher functioning reliability in that initiation can occur upon contact with any part of the standoff spike assembly, i.e., improved performance on irregular surfaces and graze functioning.
The fin is threaded to receive a tracer.
The projectiles are painted black or olive drab. The M456A1E2, M456A2, and M622 markings are white or yellow.
Functioning
The electrically initiated primer ignites the propelling charge. Gases produced by the burning propellant propel the projectile from the gun and ignite the tracer which burns for a minimum of 2.5 seconds. Upon impact, fuze functioning detonates the projectile and the cone collapses, creating a high velocity focused shock wave and a jet of metal particles that penetrate the target.
Hazardous Components
Filler - Composition B (2.14 lb, 0.97 kg)
Cartridge case - M148A1B1
Propellant - M30
Primer - M83
Tracer - M13
Physical Data
Length, overall - 39.6 in, 1005.8 mm
Length, projectile - 26.07 in, 662.2 mm
See Also
Cartridge, 105mm HEAT-T, M456, M456A1, M456E1
Source(s)
Iraq Ordnance Identification Guide (2004)
