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Science & Technology |
Re-gunning The AC-130 |
2007-02-10 |
All 25 of the AC-130s are being converted to use 30mm guns. By the end of the year, there should be four AC-130s, each armed with two 30mm cannon (and a 105mm howitzer), rather than a 40mm and a 25mm cannon (and a 105mm howitzer.) The existing 25mm and 40mm guns on the AC-130 are being phased out of military service. Actually, the 40mm gun is something of a museum piece. None have been manufactured for over a decade, and parts have to be custom made. Ammo is hard to get, and expensive, as well. The 25mm gun is no longer used by any other air force aircraft, and is being replaced on ground vehicles by 30mm cannon. The new 30mm gun is easier to operate and maintain. For example, many repairs can be made while in the air, and it's easier to reload. |
Posted by:3dc |
#5 Is the 40 mm being phased out a BOFORS BOFORS BOFORS BOFORS? Yep, apparently there isn't enough ammo and spare parts available for the 40mm guns that are currently used. |
Posted by: Valentine 2007-02-10 22:55 |
#4 Is the 40 mm being phased out a BOFORS BOFORS BOFORS BOFORS? |
Posted by: Shipman 2007-02-10 17:41 |
#3 According to the article, OP, the two 30mm cannons are different designs but use the same ammo; and the Air Force is packing the HEDP rounds from the A-10 for the AC-130. |
Posted by: Shieldwolf 2007-02-10 15:14 |
#2 Wonder if it uses the same 30mm cannon on the A-10 - and the same ammunition? That would certainly get the islamonutz' shorts in a bunch. |
Posted by: Old Patriot 2007-02-10 15:09 |
#1 Test the new guns out on Tater and his Tots, with a sprinkling of Iranian agents, please. Pass the popcorn! |
Posted by: anymouse 2007-02-10 13:03 |