Nammo Secures $14.2 Million Deal to Equip Australian F-35s with Advanced APEX Armor-Piercing Ammunition

In a significant development for modern aerial warfare, Norwegian-Finnish defense company Nammo has secured a landmark contract worth 22.9 million Australian dollars ($14.2 million) to supply its cutting-edge APEX 25mm armor-piercing ammunition to Australia’s fleet of F-35A fighter jets. This deal not only marks the first major sale of Nammo's advanced ammunition but also underscores Australia’s commitment to equipping its fifth-generation stealth fighters with top-tier capabilities.

What Sets Nammo's APEX Ammunition Apart?

Nammo’s APEX ammunition is regarded as one of the most advanced aircraft munitions ever developed. It combines multiple capabilities within a single round, offering a mix of armor-piercing and explosive effects that give the F-35A an operational edge.

At its core is a tungsten carbide penetrator, a high-density material capable of neutralizing heavily armored, semi-armored, and even lighter targets with remarkable efficiency. The round's effectiveness isn’t confined to direct hits; its design ensures it remains lethal even in the case of glancing strikes.

Additionally, the APEX round contains an explosive warhead that produces blast, fragmentation, and incendiary effects upon detonation. This multi-effect capability ensures versatility against a broad spectrum of targets, ranging from armored vehicles to fortified structures and other battlefield assets.

The ammunition also integrates a dual-safety fuse mechanism, which not only guarantees a safe arming distance from the aircraft but also ensures a delayed detonation inside the target for maximum damage.

Key Specifications of the APEX 25mm Round

• Material: Tungsten carbide penetrator for exceptional armor-piercing capability.
• Warhead: High-explosive filler delivering blast, fragmentation, and incendiary effects.
• Effective Range: Designed for optimal performance in both air-to-ground and air-to-air engagements.
• Safety Features: Dual-safety fuse ensuring safe operation and precise detonation timing.
• Operational Advantage: Effective against a diverse range of targets, even with partial impacts.

Enhancing Australia’s F-35A Fleet

Deliveries under this contract will commence later this year, with completion expected by 2027. Once fully equipped with Nammo’s APEX rounds, Australia’s F-35A Lightning II fighters will see a significant enhancement in their mission effectiveness. The new ammunition is expected to bolster the jets’ ability to neutralize high-value targets while improving their accuracy and adaptability in complex operational environments.

Reijo Bragberg, executive vice president of Nammo’s Small and Medium Caliber business unit, emphasized the significance of this contract, stating, “Our APEX ammunition is recognized as the most capable aircraft ammunition ever deployed, and its performance against a diverse range of targets sets it apart.”

Strategic Importance of the Deal

This contract reflects the growing demand for advanced munitions tailored to meet the needs of modern combat scenarios. For Australia, the addition of the APEX ammunition aligns with its broader strategy to maintain technological superiority in the Indo-Pacific region.

Nammo’s deal with Australia also demonstrates the company’s dedication to innovation in defense technology. With its unique blend of armor-piercing and explosive capabilities, the APEX round is poised to play a key role in enhancing the combat readiness of the F-35A, which is already one of the world’s most advanced fighter platforms.

The Future of APEX Ammunition

As the first major sale of Nammo’s APEX rounds, this deal is expected to pave the way for further adoption by allied nations operating the F-35. Its multi-role design, coupled with unmatched performance, positions it as a game-changing ammunition for air combat and ground support missions alike.

By integrating such advanced munitions, Australia ensures its defense forces remain at the forefront of military innovation, capable of responding effectively to evolving threats in a dynamic geopolitical landscape.