The Functions and Applications of High Explosive Rounds

High explosive rounds are critical weapons in contemporary military operations, designed for a wide range of purposes, from creating destruction within urban areas to disabling armored vehicles. These powerful explosives are used to destroy military structures, reduce infantry resistance, and damage aircraft facilities.

Overview of High Explosive Rounds

High explosive (HE) rounds, also known as high explosive shells, are ammunition designed to explode in the air and create a powerful blast, as well as fragment into dangerous shards that can cause significant damage. While they are often referred to in a general sense, specific HE ammunition is rarely labeled as such. Instead, they are commonly used in artillery and cannons to achieve specific destructive effects.

Applications of High Explosive Rounds

High explosive shells are primarily used against infantry and soft targets such as vehicles and machine gun emplacements. They are not ideal for heavily armored targets but excel in area targets that involve personnel and lighter vehicles. Some HE rounds, such as HESH (High Explosive Squash Head), are specialized to target thin armor, such as a truck, by creating a high-velocity projectile that can penetrate.

City Destruction and Incendiary Effects

The use of high explosive rounds in urban combat is particularly devastating. They can cause significant destruction and serve as incendiaries, contributing to the creation of uncontrollable firestorms. During World War II, the bombing of Dresden, Germany, illustrates the destructive capabilities of high explosives. The heavy use of incendiary and pyrophoric materials, such as white phosphorus, in conjunction with HE rounds, can rupture fuel cells and storage tanks, leading to widespread, hard-to-extinguish fires.

Area and Infantry Suppression

High explosive rounds are particularly effective in suppressing infantry and vehicles. When fired in combination with incendiary shells, they can rupture fuel cells and storage tanks, providing fuel for fires. Additionally, they cause combat and combat support systems crews to "button up," reducing their combat effectiveness. These rounds are also used to suppress systems like anti-tank missiles and air defenses.

Detonation Mechanisms

The effectiveness of high explosive rounds can be optimized with various types of fuses, which can be set to detonate at a specific height over the target, creating optimal anti-personnel effects. Others can be set to explode after a short delay upon hitting the ground, allowing the shell to penetrate earthworks or even concrete barriers before detonating. While not optimal for heavily armored targets, their destructive power is highly effective against area targets consisting of personnel and lighter vehicles.

Conclusion

High explosive rounds play a crucial role in military operations, providing a versatile and powerful tool for destruction. Their ability to create widespread damage and suppress enemy forces makes them indispensable in both urban and open-area combat scenarios. Understanding the applications and functions of these rounds is essential for those involved in military operations and defense strategies.