The analysis highlights the significant benefits of a 30 percent reduction in ammunition weight, including fewer troop casualties, improved combat readiness, and substantial cost savings.
- Combat Casualty Reduction: A 30 percent reduction in ammunition weight can directly impact battlefield survival rates. For a 13-member Marine Rifle Squad engaging an enemy of four (4) in a defensive position, rushing across 100 meters of rough desert terrain, a 15 lb. weight reduction for troops can save lives – "it can reduce squad casualties from 8.9 to 3.5." Ammunition is 8 lbs. per troop, so a 30 percent reduction is 2.4 lbs., or 16 percent of the weight reduction targeted – in essence saving about one troop per engagement. This is based on over 885,000 simulations.
- Enhanced Mobility: Lighter ammunition enables soldiers to carry more rounds without increasing their load, boosting mobility and agility on the battlefield. This improved efficiency allows for faster deployment and reduced physical strain.
- Reduced Fatigue: With less weight to carry, troops experience less fatigue, which significantly enhances endurance and operational effectiveness during high-stress missions.
Operational Efficiency: Streamlined Logistics and Cost Savings
- Increased Transport Capacity: Shell Tech's lighter ammunition reduces the need for every fourth vehicle in transport convoys, enabling fewer shipments and lowering fuel consumption. For instance, traditional .50 calibre ammunition requires 10 pallets per vehicle, whereas lighter ammo accommodates 14 pallets per vehicle.
- Aircraft Fuel Savings: A 30 percent weight reduction in ammunition payloads translates to a 9–15 percent savings in fuel costs per mission. For the U.S. military, this equates to over $1.16 billion in annual savings based on 200,000 aircraft missions.
- Maintenance Reduction: The reduced weight lessens wear and tear on weapon systems, transportation vehicles, and aircraft, resulting in significant long-term maintenance savings.
Combat Readiness: Empowering Troops on the Battlefield
- Improved Safety and Endurance: Lightweight ammunition decreases the risk of injuries related to carrying heavy equipment, such as back and joint problems. Healthier and less fatigued troops are better prepared to execute their missions effectively.
- Enhanced Efficiency: By reducing combat load weight, troops gain the ability to carry additional supplies or critical equipment, improving readiness for a variety of combat scenarios.
Both the U.S. military and allied forces are taking notice of Shell Shock's advancements. This case technology has been part of winning solutions for lightweight, highly accurate ammunition with increased projectile velocities in multiple Requests for Proposals (RFPs) completed by the U.S. military over the past few years. Military testing has been extremely successful, although specific programs remain undisclosed due to ongoing NDAs.
The company disclosed that it has received multiple Indications of Interest (IOIs) for 7.62 rifle and machine gun rounds, worth over $200 million. As a result, Shell Shock will need to scale rapidly and is currently in discussions with several large defence contractors to partner with the company.
While the company serves military customers, Shell Shock recently released its Shell Tech ammo line, which is available to the civilian market. This ammunition is sold direct from its factory and shipped to customers, enabling the company to offer military-grade ammo at a cost comparable to traditional brass-cased ammunition.
"Shell Shock Technologies is committed to providing our armed forces with innovative solutions that not only enhance mission success but also protect the lives of those who serve," said Peter Foss, CEO of Shell Shock Technologies. "Our lighter-weight ammunition not only saves weight and money but most importantly reduces casualties among U.S. troops."
