Ukrainian Armed Forces start using DM11 shells with programmable detonation (video)
Ukrainian tankers have posted a video on social media showing that Leopard 2A6 crews are using DM11 tank shells with programmable fuzes.
The nomenclature of the transferred ammunition is kept secret by Kyiv’s allies. In this regard, the video was the first confirmation that the Ukrainian Armed Forces have such ammunition.
In the video, a Leopard 2A6 tanker shows an unknown sub-caliber ammunition and a DM11 shell. It was developed by Defense Munitions International. The tank shell detonator has a programmable timer. The crew can program the projectile so that it explodes a certain time after the shot.
According to experts, DM11 is superior to most Western munitions in terms of effectiveness. When creating it, the engineers refused to compromise on armor-piercing qualities. That is why the DM11 warhead contains more explosive than its marketed counterparts.
The main part of the projectile contains a block with striking elements (tungsten carbide balls). The detonation produces a dense cloud of fragments characterized by high penetration. The projectile can be programmed to explode in front of or above the target.
The DM11 supports the following operating modes:
- mV (delayed detonation).
- oV (detonation without delay).
- LSP (location-specific detonation).
Due to the rich functionality of the projectile, it can be used to defeat a wide range of targets. For example, in the mV mode, a projectile can destroy manpower hiding in shelters. In oV mode, it can be used for direct aiming. In LSP mode, it is ideal for destroying personnel in an open area.
Unfortunately, Ukrainian tankers will not be able to realize the full potential of the DM11. The fact is that detonation modes can only be activated with a special programmer. It is integrated into the Rh120 L55A1 tank gun. Only Leopard 2A7s are equipped with such guns, which are not in service with the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
