High Explosive Anti-tank Warhead
High explosive anti-tank (HEAT) warheads are made of an explosive shaped charge that uses the Munroe effect to create a very high-velocity partial stream of metal in a state of superplasticity that can punch through solid armor.
Contrary to a widespread misconception perpetuated by the acronym, HEAT rounds do not depend in any way on thermal phenomena for their effectiveness. In particular, the shaped charge jets do not "melt their way" through armor, only reaching 500-600°C, and instead rely on extreme pressure to force a hole through the armor.
Read more about High Explosive Anti-tank Warhead: Operation, HEAT Projectile Stabilization and Accuracy, History, Helicopter Armament, Armor Developments, Variations
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