What is the primary function of the M8 API cartridge?

The primary function of the M8 API cartridge is to serve as an armor-piercing incendiary round. This type of ammunition is designed to penetrate armor and, upon impact, ignite a flammable substance that can cause additional damage to targets like vehicles or structures. The armor-piercing component allows it to effectively breach protective barriers, making it suitable for use against lightly armored or unarmored threats where destruction is critical. This capability differentiates it from other types of rounds used for training, safety, or non-lethal purposes, aligning with specific military objectives that require enhanced lethality against armored targets.