S.Korea Develops 76mm Armor-Piercing High-Explosive Bomb for Warships

The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), led by Director Eom Dong-hwan, revealed on Thursday that the operational test evaluation of the 76mm naval gun's armor-piercing high-explosive bomb has resulted in a judgment of suitability for combat.

It took four years for the DAPA to complete the development of the bomb. The impetus for this endeavor arose in 2010 when the need to bolster combat power in adjacent sea areas was identified.

Designed to enhance the striking ability of 3-inch naval guns on small and medium-sized ships, including Yunyoungha-class high-speed ships and Chamsuri-class high-speed boats, this high-explosive bomb distinguishes itself from conventional counterparts. Rather than exploding upon impact, it is engineered to penetrate the enemy hull and detonate inside when the post-impact delay fuse is activated.

The DAPA is now gearing up for full-scale mass production, intending to establish future standards for deployment.

Senior Public Official Myung Lee, Director of the Defense Acquisition Program Administration Firepower Division, said, "The completion of the 76mm armor-piercing high-explosive bomb development will significantly enhance the Navy's anti-ship operational capabilities."