New uses for proven weapons: adapting the Chain Gun for CUAS
Northrop Grumman’s M230LF Chain Gun is finding a growing role in countering uncrewed aerial systems, with the 30mm weapon already deployed to Ukraine and adopted by US forces.
Saab will provide AT4-family weapons to India. (Photo: Saab)
Saab on 20 January announced that the Indian Army and Indian Air Force will be new users of the AT4 84mm disposable shoulder-launched recoilless weapon.
The AT4 was selected by India following a ‘competitive programme for a single-shot weapon’, Saab noted. Its Carl-Gustaf M3 recoilless anti-tank gun is already in use with the Indian Army.
The order for India, worth an undisclosed amount, includes the AT4 Confined Space Reduced Sensitivity (AT4CS RS) anti-armour variant that can be fired from inside buildings or bunkers.
AT4CS RS is a fully disposable, preloaded weapon system with a specially developed shaped-charge tandem warhead with breach or blast mode. It weighs less than 8 kg and has an effective range of 20-300m.
Other operators of the AT4 or AT4CS RS include France, Latvia and the US.
Northrop Grumman’s M230LF Chain Gun is finding a growing role in countering uncrewed aerial systems, with the 30mm weapon already deployed to Ukraine and adopted by US forces.
KNDS Deutschland has fitted a tracked RCH 155 with a new KNDS France 155mm/58cal ordnance, opening a potential path towards significantly longer-range artillery and a future beyond the current NATO standard.
It is believed that three companies did not make the downselect but a dark horse in Spain’s Iturri is believed to have got through.
Air defence and counter-drone weapons continue to be developed, tested and demonstrated in anticipation of growing demand, with most solutions designed to be platform-agnostic and readily integrated onto suitable platforms.
The US Army began its search for a 155mm tracked mobile tactical cannon in an effort that Shephard forecasts could be worth billions of dollars. Meanwhile, the UK DVD exhibition saw companies showcase their offerings for the British Army’s mobility and air defence requirements.
The development demonstrates how the platform could provide additional firepower and growth potential while the US Army progresses its long-term replacement for the Bradley.