To create a greater combat capability for future ground platform systems and upgrades, Northrop Grumman and the US Army’s Armament Research, Development and Engineering Center (ARDEC) have collaborated to evaluate a 50mm (50x318mm) Chain Gun based on the company’s proven systems, in service worldwide, which range from the Mk52 (7.62mm), M242 (25mm), M230 (30mm x117mm), Mk44 (30mm x 173mm or 40mm x 180) and to the BUSHMASTER III (35x228mm or 50x318mm).

The company developed the 50mm cannon for the US Army’s Next Generation Combat Vehicle (NGCV) programme, where the gun will be placed within one of the larger vehicle contenders.

Having built, tested and delivered to ARDEC the 50mm Chain Gun for evaluation in 2018 (with additional systems on the way for further evaluation), the gun brings high maintainability and versatility into the space between 40mm and larger calibres.

According to company officials, it is intended to have development ready in two years, with an extended range well beyond current 25mm platforms.

Northrop Grumman will conduct a live fire demonstration for customers and industry partners during its BUSHMASTER User Conference this week in Arizona. During that event, Northrop Grumman also will showcase its developments in advanced ammunition types and counter unmanned systems technologies.