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.
NGSW-R is the planned replacement for the M4A1. (Photo: US Army)
After announcing Vortex Optics as the supplier of the Next Generation Squad Weapons - Fire Control (NGSW-FC) system, the US Army plans to select the company that will provide the rifle (NGSW-R) and the automatic rifle (NGSW-AR) elements in Q4 2022.
Speaking on behalf of the Soldier Lethality Cross Functional Team (CFT), a US Army official told Shephard that although the prototype test phase for the rifle and the automatic rifle have not been completed, there are plans to progress with the programme in the coming months.
‘We expect to down-select to one vendor and begin equipping the first unit in the
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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.