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| The M230 LF |
Militarymedia.net | In the ever-evolving world of military technology, innovation is the key to maintaining a competitive edge. The M230 LF (Link-Fed) 30mm chain gun system, a descendant of the iconic M230 Bushmaster, has emerged as a remarkable piece of engineering that plays a pivotal role in modern military operations. Mounted beneath Apache gunship helicopters, the M230 LF has provided crucial fire support to U.S. troops across various theaters of combat engagement. This article explores the features, capabilities, and applications of the M230 LF, shedding light on its significant impact on modern warfare.
A Formidable Force on the Battlefield
The M230 LF is a single-barrel, externally powered, electrically fired, chain-driven weapon that fires 30mm linkless ammunition at a cyclic rate of approximately 625 rounds per minute. This substantial caliber allows it to deliver a more powerful punch, effectively penetrating targets with a projectile muzzle velocity of 85 m/s. It boasts an effective firing range of 1,500 meters and a maximum firing range extending up to 4,000 meters. The M230 LF is capable of firing lightweight 30mm rounds, including the M788 target practice and M789 high explosive dual-purpose rounds, which are used by the U.S. Army.
Precision and Minimal Collateral Damage
The M789 ammunition is a primary tactical round for the Apache AH-64 helicopter, known for its precision and minimal collateral damage. Notably, the M799 round is not used due to safety concerns regarding ammunition capacity. Loading this ammunition into the AH-64D Longbow Apache is handled by Armament Personnel using an aircraft-mounted motorized loader and a dedicated ammunition handling tray.
Evolution of the M230 LF
For the past 25 years, the M230 Bushmaster chain gun held the spotlight as the premier weapon used on the AH-64 Apache helicopter. Today, its descendant, the M230 LF, represents a new adaptation of medium-caliber cannons for ground vehicles. Offered by Orbital ATK, the M230 LF is a more capable version of the chain gun, featuring an anti-hangfire system, a dinking feeder for linked ammunition, and an extended-length barrel. These improvements result in increased muzzle velocity and hitting power while using the same M789 and NATO standard 30mm projectiles. However, the rate of fire is reduced to 200 rounds per minute.
The Birth of a Ground Variant
The transition from air to ground operations became necessary as combat veterans experienced a high success rate with the M230 LF from the air. This led to the development of the M230 LF for ground applications. John McCullum, Director of Business Development for Bushmaster chain guns at Northrop Grumman, explains, "The M230 LF was created to be mounted on lightweight ground platforms, bringing the same firepower and versatility to ground applications."
Countering Unmanned Aerial Threats
The M230 LF has proven its worth in countering unmanned aerial threats. Northrop Grumman has developed a 30mm by 113mm high explosive proximity round that detects and detonates in the proximity of a drone, effectively defeating the threat without requiring a direct hit. If the round doesn't detect a target during flight, it self-destructs in the air at maximum range, ensuring the safety of those on the ground. This makes the M230 LF, when used with proximity ammunition, ideal for countering unmanned aerial threats.
Integration and Deployment
The M230 LF's transition to a link-fed system has reduced its space requirements, easing integration into various platforms. The barrel of the M230 LF was lengthened to regain muzzle velocity lost by lack of altitude and to add gun stability to lower recoil force. An anti-hangfire safety mechanism was added to protect operators, who often sit very close to the gun.
Today, the M230 LF is deployed on a variety of international and U.S. military vehicles, including Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs), Stryker vehicles, and Mine Resistant All-Terrain Vehicles. The M230 LF was adopted by the Army as XM914 to support their M-SHORAD program and is under contract to support the U.S. Marine Corps M-SHORAD program.
Enhanced Air Defense Capabilities
The M230 LF is not limited to ground vehicles; it is also a vital component of the U.S. Marine Corps Marine Air Defense Integrated System (MADIS). The MADIS includes the XM914 E1 30mm percussion-primed cannon, a coaxial M240C machine gun, provisions for a Stinger air-to-air launcher, and counter-UAS defeat systems. This integrated system is part of the Marine Corps' efforts to upgrade its ground-based air defense systems, addressing the evolving threats in modern warfare.
Future Prospects
Here are some commonly asked questions (FAQs) with brief answers:
What is the M230 LF chain gun system?
The M230 LF (Link-Fed) chain gun system is a 30mm caliber, single-barrel weapon known for its role in modern military technology. It is mounted beneath Apache gunship helicopters and provides crucial fire support to U.S. troops.
How fast does the M230 LF fire?
The M230 LF fires at a cyclic rate of approximately 625 rounds per minute, making it a formidable force on the battlefield.
What types of ammunition does the M230 LF use?
The M230 LF is capable of firing various 30mm rounds, including M788 target practice and M789 high explosive dual-purpose rounds, which are used by the U.S. Army.
What is the primary tactical round for the Apache AH-64 helicopter?
The M789 high explosive dual-purpose round is the primary tactical round for the Apache AH-64 helicopter, known for its precision and minimal collateral damage.
What are the key improvements in the M230 LF compared to its predecessor, the M230 Bushmaster?
The M230 LF features an anti-hangfire system, a dinking feeder for linked ammunition, and an extended-length barrel, resulting in increased muzzle velocity and hitting power.
How does the M230 LF counter unmanned aerial threats?
The M230 LF uses a 30mm high explosive proximity round that detects and detonates in the proximity of a drone, effectively countering unmanned aerial threats without requiring a direct hit.
Where is the M230 LF deployed?
The M230 LF is deployed on various international and U.S. military vehicles, including Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs), Stryker vehicles, and Mine Resistant All-Terrain Vehicles.
What is the role of the M230 LF in the U.S. Marine Corps Marine Air Defense Integrated System (MADIS)?
The M230 LF is a key component of the MADIS, providing air defense capabilities, including the counter-UAS mission, in support of the Marine Corps' ground-based air defense systems.
How is the M230 LF adapting to future threats?
The M230 LF continues to evolve to address changing threats by incorporating advanced technologies and enhancing its role in modern warfare.
What is the significance of the M230 LF in the context of global military operations?
The M230 LF is a defining weapon in the global war on terror, serving as a crucial asset in both ground and air applications, contributing to modern military technology and enhancing combat capabilities.
