What is the primary characteristic of the 30 mm high explosive incendiary (HEI) ammunition?

The primary characteristic of the 30 mm high explosive incendiary (HEI) ammunition is its impact detonation feature. This means that the round is designed to explode upon impact with a target, resulting in a rapid release of energy that produces both a high explosive effect and incendiary properties. Upon detonation, the round creates fragmentation that can damage or destroy various target types, particularly armored vehicles and aircraft.

This design is intended to maximize the lethality of the ammunition while providing an immediate explosive effect upon striking the target. Impact detonation is critical for achieving effective results in combat situations, offering a reliable and explosive capability to neutralize threats quickly and effectively. Other characteristics, while potentially important for understanding ammunition types, do not define the primary purpose and function of the HEI round as impact detonation does.