Projectiles for “Leopards”: Rheinmetall tested new 120-mm armor-piercing ammunition eKE

The KE2020Neo projectiles will be produced in series and are the generation of ammunition that follows the DM53 and DM63. Its main element is a high-strength tungsten core, which is effective against complex defense systems.

The German company Rheinmetall has successfully completed the development of a new generation of 120-mm armor-piercing ammunition KE with improved armor penetration. The ammunition, known as KE2020Neo or eKE (enhanced Kinetic Energy), has passed qualification tests and the company has now received orders from the Bundeswehr and the British Army to produce qualification samples. Defense Industry Europe resource reported this on October 8.

Technical features of KE2020Neo

The KE2020Neo ammunition continues the series of armor-piercing projectiles (KE) from Rheinmetall, which are known for their high performance against modern defense systems. The main element of the projectile is a high-strength tungsten penetrating element capable of penetrating the latest types of armor. This item works from the kinetic energy transferred upon impact, making it particularly effective against complex defense systems.

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A breakthrough in KE technology was provided by using new materials and optimizing the aerodynamic characteristics of the projectile. Thanks to this, the KE2020Neo demonstrates significantly improved armor penetration compared to previous generations.

Development of KE ammunition

The first generation of Rheinmetall armor-piercing projectiles was introduced as the DM13, followed by the DM23 in the 1980s. Subsequent generations included the DM33 and DM53, as well as the DM63, which became the standard for Leopard 2 tanks after upgrading to the A6 version. The DM63 is currently available in the A1 version, which meets REACh environmental requirements.

The most advanced version, the DM73, is designed for use with the L55A1 high-pressure guns mounted on the Leopard 2 and Challenger 3 tanks. The new 120mm KE2020Neo ammunition also meet modern NATO requirements and are key to the combat effectiveness of tank units.

Importance for the defense industry

The official contract was signed in September 2020 between the Federal Office for Equipment of the Bundeswehr (BAAINBw) and management of Rheinmetall. The article emphasizes that the development of these weapons, such as eKE, once again confirms Rheinmetall's leadership in the development of armor-piercing projectiles and smoothbore technologies.

At the same time, the company's 120 mm smoothbore gun systems, including the Rh120 and ammunition for them, became the standard for main battle tanks of NATO — Leopard 2 and M1 Abrams. These developments are also being used on new combat platforms, such as the British Challenger 3 tank.