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Soldier safety starts with shocking pictures

A current study by the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) into the different effects of small arms fire will help to improve the safety of Australian soldiers, the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Defence, Mr Peter Lindsay said today.

Gelatine torso placed into position

“This research will give our soldiers a more accurate understanding of the potential effects of ammunitions and weapon systems and enable them to better protect themselves on the battlefield,” Mr Lindsay said.

“This study is about the effects of ammunition fired by domestic and foreign weapons, including the Australian Steyr rifle and the well-known AK-47 assault rifle.”

The study included a recent trial when a variety of small arms ammunition were fired on a number of targets, including a simulated human torso and body armour. These firings were captured on high speed video from a long distance, using both still and motion cameras.

Mr Lindsay said the results from the trial would provide the Army’s Combat Training Centre (CTC) with the visual means to demonstrate the real effects of battlefield engagement.

DSTO scientist Mr Carmine Caputo said the effects of the ammunition and target response were clearly visible on film and gave the soldiers a better understanding of how to effectively employ their own weapons and defend their positions.

“This is a valuable education tool,” Mr. Lindsay said. “It will enable our soldiers to be better prepared and assist in enhancing their judgment during combat.”

Mr Caputo said DSTO was aiming to achieve an important learning outcome for soldiers preparing for operations – that they understand the difference between the concepts of cover (protection from fire) and concealment (hidden from view but not necessarily protected from fire).

“The trial has also provided DSTO with useful weapon, ammunition and target response data which scientists will be able to access for future modelling and research,” Mr Caputo said.

Further information:
Media Advisor: Niki Lyons 0418 762 307
DSTO: Steve Butler, 08 8259 6923, 0418 800 323, steve.butler@dsto.defence.gov.au

The Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) is part of Australia's Department of Defence. DSTO's role is to ensure the expert, impartial and innovative application of science and technology to the defence of Australia and its national interests.

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