Israel Military Industries Ltd. has announced the development of what it is calling its new “super bullet” – a new, more accurate and more deadly 5.56-millimeter bullet capable of penetrating armor at a range of 800 meters.
In a series of trials, the company found the bullet was 30 percent more accurate than 7.62-millimeter bullets at ranges up to 550 meters, and had greater penetration capability at ranges up to 800 meters. At 800 meters, the super-bullet penetrated 3.4-millimeter steel plates.
Up to this point, only 7.62-millimeter bullets adapted to automatic weapons fire could penetrate armor without sacrificing performance, according to IMI small arms ammunition division managing director Israel Shmilovitz, who spoke with Globes.
The new super-bullet gives combat soldiers improved capabilities while enhancing firepower equivalent to that of an FN MAG machine gun. It also reduces the weight a soldier must carry to the battlefield.