Mr. Ralph F. Campoli

Ralph F. Campoli is a world-renowned design expert in the field of ordnance ammunition. His innovative engineering contributions during his 38-year army career at Picatinny Arsenal have enabled the United States Army to stand tall as the gold standard benchmark for lethality of tank-fired ammunition. His novel design concepts in kinetic energy and chemical energy projectiles have revolutionized tank firepower, providing our fighting forces with unmatched lethality.

In the late 1970s, test projectiles for a new 120mm tank weapon system experienced a variety of accuracy and structural failures. Mr. Campoli was requested to serve as a design consultant. He recommended a crucial change in seal design, developed an obdurator and seal system, and was instrumental in designing a sabot system that supports an extremely long penetrator. During Operation Desert Storm, the M829A1, 120mm round was nicknamed the “Silver Bullet” for its capability to defeat enemy tanks at extended engagement ranges.

He exercised international influence with our strategic partners. He directly assisted the Republic of Korea to become self-sufficient in developing kinetic energy ammunition for their existing 90mm tank weapons inventory. His technical guidance and ability to work cross-culturally helped Korean military planners avoid up-gunning their tank fleet to 105mm, saving the country millions of dollars and ensuring the capability of force containment on the peninsula.

Mr. Campoli’s design contributions have stood the test of time. In armaments circles, he is often referred to as the “Godfather of Modern Tank Kinetic Energy Ammunition” and was intimately involved in development of such US Army rounds as the M735, M774, M797, M832, M833, M900, M829, M829A1, M829A2, and the M830A1.