HEPF Shell for Naval Use

  • 04 Sep 2024

On 3rd September 2024, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has transferred the production document of the 30mm High Explosive Preformed Fragmentation (HEPF) shell to the Director General of Naval Armament Inspection, marking a significant advancement in naval defense capabilities.

  • The 30mm HEPF shell, designed for use with AK-630 naval guns, enhances the Indian Navy's ability to counter drones at sea.
  • Developed by DRDO's Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), the shell offers superior fragmentation lethality compared to the currently used HE/I shells.
  • The HEPF shells can be seamlessly integrated into existing naval gun systems, ensuring compatibility with the in-service AK-630 Naval gun.
  • The shell's hardware was manufactured by three Indian companies under ARDE’s specifications and successfully passed gun firing proof tests in collaboration with the Naval Armament Inspectorate in Jabalpur.
  • These successful tests confirm the HEPF shell's suitability for induction into naval operations, enhancing the Indian Navy's defensive capabilities.