Own a rare, inert, new old stock (NOS) U.S. military prototype round—the 40mm L/70 XM822 High-Explosive Prefragmented Proximity Projectile with Dummy Aluminum Fuze. This round was developed as part of a next-generation air defense system during the Cold War, featuring tungsten prefragmented shrapnel and a proximity fuze for enhanced lethality against aerial threats.
While extensively tested, the XM822 was never officially adopted for field use by the U.S. military, making this a historically significant ordnance collectible.
The 40mm L/70 automatic anti-aircraft gun, originally developed by Bofors, was a core component of military air defense systems from the Cold War through the modern era. Used on naval warships, armored vehicles, and ground-based air defense systems, the L/70 system was designed to rapidly engage and destroy aircraft, helicopters, and incoming missile threats with precision firepower.
The XM822 HE Prefragmented Proximity Projectile was an advanced variant developed by the U.S. military to increase aerial target hit probability. Unlike conventional impact-detonated rounds, the XM822 featured a proximity fuze designed to detonate mid-air near a target, dispersing its prefragmented tungsten shrapnel for maximum damage.
Tungsten, being denser and harder than traditional steel fragmentation, provided superior penetration and lethality, making this round a highly advanced and lethal concept in anti-aircraft munitions. Despite its promising design, the U.S. military ultimately did not field the 40mm L70, opting for other air defense systems instead.
This inert NOS 40mm L/70 XM822 HE Prefragmented Proximity Projectile is an incredibly rare example of U.S. military ordnance history. As a tested but never-fielded prototype, this round represents the cutting edge of Cold War-era air defense technology, showcasing advanced proximity fuzing and tungsten fragmentation concepts that were ahead of their time.
Unlike standard artillery rounds, this prototype provides a glimpse into the research and development of next-generation anti-aircraft munitions, making it a must-have for military historians, ordnance collectors, and enthusiasts.
Pictures are stock images of our inventory. Unless otherwise noted, you will not be receiving the exact item shown in the pictures. The pictures are representative of the item's general condition. The item you receive might be slightly better, or worse, condition than was shown in the pictures.
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