U.S. Army's M1147 120mm Advanced Multi-Purpose Round Enters Full-Rate Production

The U.S. Army has officially approved the M1147 120mm Advanced Multi-Purpose (AMP) round for full-rate production as of December 20, 2024. This significant milestone, announced by the Joint Program Executive Officer for Armaments & Ammunition (JPEO A&A), allows for the expansion of production beyond the initial low-rate phase, effectively addressing critical ammunition needs for both the Army and its international allies.

Enhanced Capabilities for the M1 Abrams Tank

The M1147 AMP round is designed to provide M1 Abrams tank crews with versatile capabilities by consolidating the functions of four legacy rounds into a single munition. This integration is achieved through a multi-mode programmable fuze, offering three operational settings:

• Point Detonate (PD): Immediate explosion upon impact, suitable for engaging standard targets.

• Point Detonate Delay (PDD): Delayed detonation post-impact, effective for penetrating structures or fortified positions.

• Airburst (AB): Detonation above or in front of targets, ideal for neutralizing infantry units, including Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) teams, in defilade positions.

This advanced fuze technology enables tank crews to effectively counter a variety of threats, including ATGM teams, and to breach double-reinforced concrete walls, thereby enhancing battlefield versatility.

Logistical Efficiency and Modernization

By replacing four separate rounds—the M830 High Explosive Anti-Tank (HEAT), M830A1 Multi-Purpose Anti-Tank (MPAT), M1028 Canister, and M908 Obstacle Reduction rounds—the M1147 streamlines logistics and simplifies the Abrams tank's ammunition loadout. This consolidation not only reduces the logistical burden but also addresses issues related to aging ammunition stockpiles, ensuring that soldiers have access to reliable and modern munitions.

Commitment to Readiness and Modernization

The approval for full-rate production of the M1147 AMP round underscores the Army's dedication to maintaining readiness and advancing modernization efforts. By equipping soldiers and international partners with cutting-edge ammunition, the Army ensures that its forces maintain a decisive advantage on the battlefield, both now and in the future.

In summary, the M1147 120mm Advanced Multi-Purpose round represents a significant leap forward in military ammunition technology, offering enhanced lethality, operational flexibility, and logistical efficiency for the M1 Abrams Main Battle Tank.