We employ a simple multiple scattering model to investigate the inclusive reaction pϩA→pϩX for projectile momenta in the 100-200 GeV/c range. We find that data are consistent with a class of interaction models in which the stopping power of nuclei is rather low. We discuss extrapolation to ultrahigh energy and the application to interpretation of cosmic-ray air showers at energies up to 10 20 eV. ͓S0556-2821͑97͒06017-7͔PACS number͑s͒: 95.55. Vj, 13.15.ϩg, 13.60.Hb, 96.40.Tv PHYSICAL