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US Army's New Grenade Kills With Shockwaves
2 Apr
Summary
- New plastic grenade uses shock waves, not fragments, for lethal effect.
- Designed for urban combat, it enhances safety in close-quarters engagements.
- This is the first new lethal grenade design in decades for the US Army.
The US Army has unveiled the M111, a groundbreaking new lethal hand grenade crafted from plastic, marking the first such innovation in decades. This advanced grenade operates by generating powerful shock waves that inflict damage on internal organs, a significant departure from older models that relied on metal fragments.
The M111 is engineered for the complexities of urban combat, providing a safer and more effective solution for close-quarters engagements. Its plastic construction ensures that the shell vaporizes upon detonation, thereby eliminating dangerous shrapnel and increasing the safety of soldiers.
This new design replaces older grenades like the M67, which dispersed shrapnel in all directions. The M111's shockwave technology allows it to incapacitate enemies even when they are concealed behind obstacles, offering a distinct advantage on the battlefield. The standardization of its arming and fuzing processes also contributes to cost savings.
The introduction of the M111 follows the withdrawal of the MK3A2 grenade in the 1970s due to asbestos concerns. The Army has not introduced a new lethal grenade since 1968.
