The Armor-Piercing Rounds: What Can Stop Them?

Armor piercing rounds (APRs) have long been a major concern for military and civilian alike. These specialized rounds are designed to penetrate and destroy armor. However, the question remains: what can stop armor piercing rounds? This article delves into the challenges and methods of countermeasures.

Understanding Armor Ratings

Armor is rated based on its strength, often compared to the strength of materials like climbing ropes. Even soft body armor can stop an APR, but it largely depends on the caliber and the purpose of the armor. Caliber refers to the size of the projectile, and the armor is designed to stop specific types of threats.

Concealment as an Antidote

One of the most effective ways to avoid being a target of an APR is through concealment. If attackers can't see you, they can't aim at you. A .50 cal with an armor-piercing round can cut through 4 inches of armor plating, while phosphorus-tipped rounds start burning any flesh they hit, thanks to the oxygen in the blood sustaining the burn. Therefore, staying hidden is a smart defensive strategy.

Matching Projectiles with Armors

The complementary relationship between projectiles and armors is scientific and straightforward. I can tell you the type of projectile, and you can choose from 2 to 4 different armors that can defeat it. However, the cost and practicality of moving and using these armors are your responsibility.

Taking on the Not-So-Simple Task of Armor Design

Designing armor is not as simple as it might seem. The weight, volume, and thickness are all critical factors, and finding a balance between these elements while making the armor practical is challenging.

The Example of Tank Armor

Consider a 6-foot spherical tank. Initially, 3 inches of homogeneous steel armor weigh just over 53,000 pounds. When an adversary develops a new anti-tank weapon to defeat this armor, the tank designers must improve the armor to 3.5 inches. This results in a weight increase to 61,500 pounds. To maintain enough interior space for a bigger engine, the inside diameter must be increased to 6.25 feet, which causes the armor weight to balloon to 72,500 pounds. This example demonstrates the constant compromises and challenges in armor design.

Building vs. Resisting: A Game of Ends and Means

While the weight of a fully armored tank increases exponentially, the destructive power of the adversary's weapons increases linearly. This disparity forces designers to continuously adapt their designs to stay ahead. Additionally, material science also plays a crucial role. Making materials strong enough to withstand the strain often requires prohibitive costs.

Conclusion

Designing effective armor to stop armor piercing rounds involves balancing multiple factors, including weight, volume, material science, and practicality. Whether it's for a tank or a person, the key is to find a suitable balance between protection and mobility. Understanding these challenges and working within these constraints can help in making informed decisions.