What's Happening?
American small-arms researcher Ian McCollum, host of 'Forgotten Weapons,' conducted a test of a Russian AS Val assault rifle captured by Ukrainian forces. The test focused on the weapon's 9x39mm SP-6 armor-piercing rounds against various types of body
armor. McCollum examined the round's performance against Level IIIA soft armor, which is designed to stop .44 Magnum and 9mm Parabellum rounds. As anticipated, the SP-6 bullet successfully penetrated the soft body armor. He then tested the round against a VPAM 6 standard hard armor plate, which is typically designed to protect against multiple hits from standard 7.62x39mm rounds. Despite the plate already showing damage from previous tests, the 9x39mm SP-6 round failed to penetrate the hard armor plate, even when hitting an already compromised area, with the bullet's steel core found inside.
Why It's Important?
This detailed testing by an independent American researcher provides valuable, real-world insights into the capabilities and limitations of Russian military small arms. For U.S. military and defense analysts, understanding the specific performance of weapons like the AS Val and its specialized ammunition is crucial for developing effective countermeasures, improving soldier protection, and informing strategic planning. The findings demonstrate that while the SP-6 round is effective against soft body armor, it struggles against higher-level hard armor plates, which could influence tactical considerations and equipment procurement for forces operating against such weaponry. It highlights the continuous arms race between offensive and defensive military technologies and the importance of practical assessments.
What's Next?
The results of such tests contribute to a broader understanding of military hardware effectiveness, informing defense strategies and equipment development. For military analysts and intelligence communities, these findings will likely be integrated into threat assessments and training protocols. The unexpected outcome regarding the hard armor penetration could prompt further research into the specific characteristics of the 9x39mm SP-6 round and the materials used in VPAM 6 standard plates. This ongoing analysis helps ensure that military personnel are equipped with the most accurate information regarding potential threats and protective measures, continuously adapting to evolving battlefield technologies.
Beyond the Headlines
The testing of captured enemy equipment, facilitated by international cooperation (Ukrainian forces providing the weapon to an American researcher), underscores the importance of intelligence gathering and open-source analysis in modern warfare. This practice allows for a more objective assessment of adversary capabilities, moving beyond theoretical specifications to practical performance. It also highlights the continuous evolution of military technology, where advancements in ammunition and armor constantly challenge existing paradigms. The public dissemination of such tests, through platforms like 'Forgotten Weapons,' contributes to a broader understanding of military science and the realities of conflict, engaging a wider audience in defense-related topics and fostering transparency in weapon capabilities.
