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.
US troops fire a Javelin missile during a demonstration for Lithuanian observers. The Baltic republic is acquiring more of the ATGMs. (Photo: US Army/Staff Sgt Keith Anderson)
The Javelin JV between Raytheon and Lockheed Martin has obtained another modification from the US Army to its full-rate production contract for the FGM-148 Javelin weapon system.
Under the latest $175.94 million modification, the JV will produce ATGMs for FMS customers Lithuania and Taiwan.
Work will be performed in Tucson, Arizona, with an estimated completion date of 30 November 2023.
According to data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, Lithuania received 160 Javelin missiles between 2003 and 2020 and 750 were delivered to Taiwan between 2005 and 2020.
The original four-year contract from US Army Contracting Command includes production of all-up rounds, command launch unit retrofits, battery coolant units, Javelin outdoor trainers, an outdoor trainer instruction station, tripods, Javelin vehicle launchers and electronics.
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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.
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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.