Ammunition Peculiar Equipment

The Ammunition Peculiar Equipment (APE) program is a critical initiative under the Army's procurement activities, focusing on the support and enhancement of ammunition operations. Managed by the Single Manager for Conventional Ammunition, it aims to provide specialized equipment for ammunition depot operations worldwide. The primary goal is to ensure that the equipment used is modern, safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally acceptable. This equipment is distinct from standard production line machinery as it is specifically designed to disassemble ammunition items, sort hazardous materials, and improve personnel safety by reducing human interaction.

A key objective of the APE program is to support various missions such as maintenance, surveillance, and demilitarization at depots globally. The equipment procured plays a vital role in maintaining the quality and reliability of the ammunition stockpile through activities like cleaning, renovation, and functional testing. By doing so, it supports the Ammunition Stockpile Reliability Program and Surveillance Program. Additionally, APE aids in demilitarization efforts by safely disassembling hazardous components and reclaiming salvageable materials, promoting recycling and re-utilization while ensuring environmental compliance.

In FY 2025, there will be a significant focus on procuring and repairing APE to enhance its capabilities in supporting global ammunition sustainment operations. The deployment of APE within Ammunition Supply Point (ASP) suites is expected to increase operational efficiency by streamlining the receipt, inspection, and issuance processes for ammunition. This deployment not only reduces logistical burdens but also enhances safety during hazardous operations. These improvements contribute to better mission readiness by preserving ammunition assets and minimizing retrograde or demilitarization needs.

The APE program underscores its commitment to sustaining ammunition operations through advanced equipment solutions that prioritize safety, efficiency, and environmental stewardship. By maintaining a robust infrastructure for ammunition management across various military services worldwide, the program ensures that operational readiness is consistently upheld while optimizing resource utilization in alignment with strategic defense objectives.