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.
Chilean state-owned company Fábricas y Maestranzas del Ejército (FAMAE) has developed a 9x19mm pistol called Vulcano and intends to sell it from October this year, to improve its competitiveness in the handgun market.
This double-action semi-automatic gun was unveiled in late May. It has a metal magazine with capacity for 13 cartridges; a 4140 low-alloy steel slider; a mechanism drawer made of 7075 series duralumin (an aluminium alloy); and a barrel made of carbon steel.
Vulcano also provides a mechanical lock, automatic firing pin safety with disarming lever and an easy-to-operate slide stop.
Company spokesperson Karina Vera Cornejo told Shephard
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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.
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.