HORNET HYPERLINK STORES M61A1 VULCAN CANNON

AvStop Magazine Online

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:

Highly refined design geometry of sprockets, guides and round paths,
Special materials that provide extended life and reduced wear, and
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:

Feed System:

270 lbs (122 kg)

Gun:

252 lbs (114 kg)

Ammunition:

319 lbs (145 kg)

Total:

841 lbs (381 kg)

FIRING RATE: 4000/6000 shots per minute

AMMUNITION:

Capacity:

570 rounds

Type:

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