Projectile DM121 (DM131, M1711)

DM121 (also known as Rh30) — a 155 mm high-explosive fragmentation artillery projectile produced by Rheinmetall Waffe Munition. Adopted by the Bundeswehr in 2017. Developed for the PzH 2000 self-propelled howitzer, but can be used by any NATO 155 mm howitzer. Projectiles produced in Germany for the Netherlands are marked M1712, and projectiles made by Rheinmetall Denel Munition in South Africa are designated M0121A1 Assegai. The base-bleed variant of the DM121 was previously designated DM131 (Rh40), but was later marked as M1711, or, if produced by Rheinmetall Denel Munition in South Africa, M0121A2 Assegai.

Design features:

• Body: Made of special high-strength steel, which ensures resistance to high pressures and temperatures during firing.
• Tail shape: Tapered (boat tail), which reduces aerodynamic drag and helps to increase flight range.
• Rotating band: Bronze, ensures reliable obturation and stability in the barrel bore.
• Obturator: Plastic, located behind the rotating band, additionally ensures a gas seal during firing.

Projectile variants:

• DM121 (Rh30): The basic version of the projectile with a tapered tail section.
• M1711 (formerly known as DM131 or Rh40): A variant with a base-bleed gas generator, allowing ranges of over 40 km to be reached when fired from a howitzer with a 52-caliber barrel.

Explosive:

The projectile is filled with the insensitive explosive PBX Rh26, which complies with NATO standard STANAG 4439. This increases safety during transport, storage and use of the munition.

Production and supply:

In 2009 the Bundeswehr signed a contract with Rheinmetall for the supply of 30,000 DM121 projectiles. In 2019 an additional 32,000 projectiles of this type were ordered. Production takes place at the plant in Unterlüß, Lower Saxony.

Cost:

As of 2019, the cost of one DM121 projectile was approximately €3,400.

In service:

• Germany: The Bundeswehr actively uses DM121 projectiles in its artillery units.
• Netherlands: Projectiles produced by Rheinmetall Denel Munition are supplied under the marking M1712.
• Ukraine: In 2022 Ukraine received DM121 projectiles for use with PzH 2000 self-propelled howitzers.

The DM121 projectile is a modern and effective munition for 155 mm artillery systems, combining long firing range, powerful blast effect and increased safety thanks to the use of an insensitive explosive. Its compatibility with various NATO artillery systems makes it a versatile solution for modern armed forces.