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Mounted in the nose of each F/A-18, is General Electric's 20 mm M61A1
Vulcan cannon. The gun operates on the same principle as other Gatling
weapons and is hydraulically driven. It's primary purpose is for close-in
visual identification air-to-air combat, and for air-to-ground close air
support.
The M61A1 Vulcan armament system has proven to be highly reliable. Design
features that provide positive round control through the ammunition transfer
cycle include:
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Highly refined design geometry of sprockets, guides and round paths,
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Special materials that provide extended life and reduced wear, and
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Proven gear box designs that provide reliable power transfer.
The modular system also offers ease of maintenance. All systems components,
including the ammunition storage drum, are mounted to the aircraft on a
common pallet structure. This modular design approach permits rapid system
installation and removal during maintenance.
GUN: |
externally powered six barrel, 20 mm Gatling |
WEIGHT: |
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Feed System:
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270 lbs (122 kg) |
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Gun:
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252 lbs (114 kg) |
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Ammunition:
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319 lbs (145 kg) |
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Total:
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841 lbs (381 kg) |
FIRING RATE: |
4000/6000 shots per minute |
AMMUNITION: |
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Capacity:
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570 rounds |
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Type:
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20 mm M50 sereis, PGU-28/B Saphei |
FEED SYSTEM: |
Rotary linkless, double-ended |
DRIVE SYSTEM: |
Hydraulic |
BARREL LIFE: |
40,000 rounds |
RELIABILITY: |
15,000 Mean Rounds Between Failure |
SYSTEM LIFE: |
250,000 rounds |
GUN LIFE: |
150,000 rounds minimum |
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