The term ammunition derives from the French term la munition, and was initially applied to all war materials. Eventually, the meaning narrowed to designate gunpowder and artillery shells only. At the current time, it connotes all objects utilized by one belligerent to apply destructive force to an opponent. It is often used synonymously with ordnance.

The term ammunition covers a wide range of materials designed for various uses, from bombs delivered by aircraft to rifle bullets. The various types can be differentiated both by their delivery systems and by the use for which they were developed. Generally, the various types fall into several categories. These include antipersonnel, armor-piercing, and incendiary ammunitions.

This entry presents a brief overview of the development of main types of modern ammunition and ...