Non-Lethal Ammunition, All Types

The Non-Lethal Ammunition, All Types program is a procurement line item within the Army's ammunition budget, specifically identified as LI 1430E91901. This program is designed to acquire various types of non-lethal ammunition, with a primary focus on the M84 Stun Hand Grenade. The goal is to equip Army units with munitions that can temporarily incapacitate or disorient personnel without causing permanent harm, supporting both operational and training needs across active and reserve components.

The principal objective of this line item is to procure non-lethal munitions that fulfill critical requirements for war reserve, operational missions, training, and testing. The M84 Stun Hand Grenade is a key component, used as a diversionary device during building and room clearing operations, especially when noncombatants may be present. Its design allows it to be deployed through doors or windows, producing a loud noise and bright flash to disorient individuals. This enables Army personnel to achieve tactical surprise and reduce the risk of lethal force.

Procurement under this program is justified by its alignment with Department of Defense Instruction 3000.04 and Army Regulation 5-13, which govern the munitions requirements process and prioritization system. These regulations ensure that the acquisition of non-lethal ammunition supports Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD)-approved Combatant Commander Operational Plans, homeland defense, and other directed missions. The program also supports Title 10 war reserve requirements, ensuring readiness for both overseas and domestic contingencies.

Training is a significant focus of the Non-Lethal Ammunition, All Types program. The M84 Stun Grenade is used extensively in both individual and collective training scenarios at Army schools, home stations, and combined training centers. By providing these munitions for training, the Army ensures that personnel are proficient in their use, which is essential for effective employment in real-world operations. The program also supports the development, fielding, safety, and quality assurance of these munitions throughout their lifecycle.

This line item is also justified by statutory requirements, specifically Section 1815 of the FY 2008 National Defense Authorization Act (P.L. 110-181). The legislation mandates the provision of non-lethal capabilities to support homeland defense missions, domestic emergency responses, and military support to civil authorities. The program ensures that both active and reserve forces are equipped to respond to a range of scenarios where non-lethal force may be necessary or preferable.

For FY 2026, the base budget supports the procurement of non-lethal ammunition to meet annual training needs and build war reserve inventories in accordance with established Army procurement goals. Although there is no specific FY 2026 budget request for the M84 Stun Grenade, prior years' funding has supported its acquisition for both training and operational use. The program remains classified as service-ready, with its type classification dating back to September 1998.