A technique of controlling the shape of detonation wave fronts in high explosives by inert wave control inserts was applied to generate discrete ultrahigh‐velocity pellets. Tests to determine the most suitable pellet shape as well as the optimum charge configuration are described, and velocities up to 7600 m/sec were realized for 0.95‐g aluminum pellets. The mechanism whereby pellets are accelerated by ``shaped'' waves is discussed, and the conclusion is reached that a simple model based upon the transmission of shock from the detonation wave to the pellet is not applicable.