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.
Sig Sauer’s M18 modular handgun system (MHS) has successfully completed a lot acceptance test with zero stoppages during US Army material reliability testing, the company announced on 5 February.
The MHS material reliability test consisted of firing three M18 pistols to 12,000 rounds each. The hangun also passed a parts interchange test, met all of the stringent accuracy and dispersion requirements, and was tested for firing pin indent and trigger pull measurements to ensure consistency.
The M18 is a 9mm, striker-fired pistol featuring a coyote-tan PVD coated stainless steel slide with black controls. The pistol is equipped with SIGLITE front night sights and removable night sight rear plate and manual safety.
The MHS contract for the full-size M17 and the compact M18 with the P320-based pistol platform was awarded to Sig Sauer in January 2017. The contract calls for delivery of 480,000 pistols over a ten year period for the army, air force, navy, marine corps and coast guard.
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.