Nammo’s APEX PGU-47/U: Next-Gen Aircraft Ammunition for the F-35

In the ever-evolving landscape of aerial warfare, the need for versatile and effective munitions is paramount. Nammo's 25mm x 137 APEX PGU-47/U ammunition emerges as a groundbreaking solution, specifically designed to enhance the combat capabilities of the F-35A Lightning II's GAU-22/A cannon.

Multi-Role Versatility

The APEX PGU-47/U stands out for its unique combination of armor-piercing and explosive effects within a single round. This dual capability allows it to effectively engage a broad spectrum of targets, from heavily armored vehicles to lighter, more agile threats. The integration of a tungsten carbide penetrator ensures superior armor-piercing performance, while the explosive-filled warhead, equipped with a delayed initiation mechanism, delivers devastating blast, fragmentation, and incendiary effects deep within the target.

Enhanced Range and Accuracy

Designed with advanced aerodynamics, the APEX maintains its velocity over extended distances, providing pilots with an increased effective range. This design not only extends the reach of engagements but also enhances accuracy, thereby improving the likelihood of successful target neutralization in dynamic combat scenarios.

Innovative Impact Functionality

A notable feature of the APEX ammunition is its graze impact function. Unlike traditional munitions that require direct hits to be effective, the APEX is engineered to cause significant damage even when impacting at oblique angles. This ensures that near-miss scenarios still result in substantial target impairment, providing a tactical advantage in high-speed engagements.

Safety and Performance Features

Safety in handling and operation is a critical consideration in ammunition design. The APEX is equipped with the FMU-171/U dual-safety fuze, which ensures that the round arms only after reaching a safe distance from the aircraft, mitigating the risk of premature detonation. Additionally, the built-in detonation delay allows the round to penetrate targets before exploding, maximizing internal damage. The inclusion of a tracer function further aids pilots in tracking munition trajectories, an essential feature during air policing missions where visual confirmation of warning shots is necessary.

Specifications at a Glance

• Projectile Weight: 222 grams
• Muzzle Velocity: 970 meters per second
• Dispersion: Maximum of 0.5 mils from a single barrel
• Penetration Capability: 14 mm steel at a 45° angle, NATO standard, at an altitude of 9,000 feet
• Tracer Burn Time: Exceeds 3 seconds
• Operational Temperature Range: -62°C to +80°C

Global Adoption and Production

The APEX PGU-47/U has garnered international attention, with countries like Australia signing contracts for its integration into their F-35A fleets. Production is slated to commence in 2025, with deliveries planned over the subsequent two years, marking a significant advancement in modern aerial munitions.

Nammo's APEX PGU-47/U ammunition represents a significant leap forward in aircraft armament technology, offering unparalleled versatility, enhanced performance, and robust safety features. As air combat scenarios become increasingly complex, such innovations are crucial in maintaining tactical superiority and ensuring mission success.