Re: Aircraft weapons
I think there are some misconception about the nature of the PGU-14 fired by the GAU-8. Such round, as the cutout picture I have posted clearly show, is neither an APDS nor APFSDS, where the DS stand for Discarding Sabot. In such a configuration an high density, sub caliber penetrator is surrounded by lightweight petals which are discarded after the round leaves the muzzle in order to reduce aerodinamic drag. No such thing for the PGU-14, as the discarded petals could be sucked into the engines with the all too predictable consequences. Therefore while a subcaliber penetrator is used in the PGU-14 this is more in the fashion of APCR of WW2 vintage, with the aluminium jacket retained until the impact with the target. The drawbacks of this configuration, especially at long range, were well known even during WW2 but as I said its employment was dictated by the circumstance of its use inside an aircraft.
Note that even if you don't trust me the round is referred to as AP rather than APDS or APFSDS.As I said no DS.
"Tungsten tends to blunt its own tip and even shatter at very high velocities while a DU round self sharpens until it penetrates or runs out of energy and destroys itself."
Actually as it has been debated to death on tanknet at really extremely high velocities it is tungsten that all else being equal (quality of manufacturing,tech level , alloying etc) has an edge on DU but that is not particular important for the current round speeds as far it was understood. What it should be remembered in context is that DU has come under heavy political flak (some of it unjustified IMHO) and the DOD has had to defend its use. Some inflating of its real advantages and cherry picking of evidence went in par the course.
I hope to write something more about it later if I can find the time.
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