Abstract: A kinetic energy penetrator with a longitudinal axis may include a forward segment having a lateral surface, a rear surface, and at least one air bleed channel extending from the lateral surface to the rear surface. A second segment may be disposed aft of and torsionally engaged with the forward segment. The second segment may include a front surface adjacent the rear surface of the forward segment. The forward and second segments may each be asymmetric about the longitudinal axis of the penetrator. When the penetrator is in flight, bleed air through the bleed channels may impinge on the front surface of the second segment. The second segment may separate from the front segment. Kinetic energies of each of the forward and second segments may be less than about 75 joules upon impact with a ground surface.

Abstract: An energetic sabot allows part of the sabot to burn away at a controlled rate, adding propellant energy to the gun while at the same time completely support the projectile rod. The energetic sabot is thicker or larger at shot start to support the projectile without breaking. As the energetic sabot travels up the gun tube, the energetic sabot then thins out or otherwise decreases in mass as the force on the energetic sabot decreases. The weight of the projectile consequently decreases as it travels up the gun tube, allowing the gun gases to push a lighter projectile, giving the projectile a higher velocity. Due to its continually decreasing weight in the gun tube, the projectile experiences greater acceleration and exits the gun with a higher muzzle velocity. A secondary effect comes from increased pressure in the gun tube from the gases relinquished in the burning of the sabot, further increasing the velocity of the projectile.