What makes the M230LF so special is how it brings the same level of firepower to the ground that had previously been reserved for the skies.
The Latest and Greatest: M230LF’s Dual-Feed System
Now, let’s get to the star of the show: the dual-feed system. With this new upgrade, the M230LF allows operators to switch between two types of ammo in the middle of a mission.
Think about that for a second—no need to stop and reload with a different kind of round; you can just hit a switch and keep firing.
Our M230LF Dual Feed Bushmaster® Chain Gun® is the first 30x113mm chain gun in the world to allow operators to switch between two ammunition feed paths with a single switch, delivering dynamic performance against evolving threats. See the Bushmaster® at #AUSA24.… pic.twitter.com/JbZG2zBTXC
— Northrop Grumman (@NGCNews) October 9, 2024
One of the ammunition options includes the XM1211 proximity-fused rounds, designed to take down drones and other airborne threats. This tech is pretty cool because these rounds don’t need a direct hit—they explode near the target, causing enough damage to take out the drone. If the round doesn’t detect a target, it self-destructs to avoid collateral damage.
The second option is the XM1198 high-explosive, dual-purpose rounds, which are fantastic for anti-armor missions.
Together, these two ammo types cover a wide range of threats, making the M230LF adaptable to various combat scenarios.
“Using advanced technology combined with five decades of battle-proven experience, this next-generation cannon will empower operators to quickly respond to threats.”
—Dave Fine, Northrop Vice President of Armament Systems
Technical Specs and What Sets It Apart
In terms of design, the M230LF shares about 60 percent of its parts with the original single-feed version.
That’s important because it means operators won’t need to go through extensive retraining, and maintenance is a breeze—most of the system is already familiar to those who’ve worked with the older versions.
One of the more impressive upgrades is how Northrop Grumman shaved off some serious weight, reducing the gun turret’s weight from 3,000 pounds (1,361 kilograms) to about 1,000 pounds (454 kilograms).
That’s no small feat, and it’s a game-changer when you’re trying to mount this thing on lightweight ground vehicles.
Northrop also lengthened the barrel to boost muzzle velocity, which was necessary to make up for the lack of altitude that ground-based firing lacks compared to air-based platforms.
And let’s not forget about stability—the M230LF has enhanced recoil management, meaning less kickback and more accurate shots.
On top of all that, Northrop added an anti-hangfire safety mechanism to the design. This is particularly crucial for ground operators who sit close to the weapon and need that extra layer of protection. Safety and reliability are baked into this design, and it shows.
Field Deployment and Future Impact
It’s no surprise that the M230LF has already been fielded by both United States and international military forces.
The gun is currently in service on over 1,400 platforms worldwide, including the US Army’s M-SHORAD (maneuver short-range air defense) program and the US Marine Corps’ MADIS (Marine Air Defense Integrated System) program. It’s clear that this weapon isn’t just a prototype; it’s battle-tested and here to stay.
So, what’s next for the M230LF? Northrop Grumman is taking it to the next level by featuring the weapon at the Association of the US Army’s annual conference. This is where the military showcases its latest tech, and there’s no doubt that the M230LF will be a highlight.
With its dual-feed system and unmatched flexibility, it’s a weapon that’s set to redefine how ground forces engage threats in the 21st century.
A Game-Changer for Modern Combat
In the world of military hardware, the M230LF represents a significant leap forward. Its evolution from the skies to the ground has transformed it into a versatile and powerful tool for today’s combat missions.
With features like the dual-feed system and advanced proximity-fused ammunition, this weapon is perfectly equipped to handle the growing threats posed by drones and armored vehicles alike.
Whether it’s taking out an unmanned aircraft or delivering precision strikes against armored targets, the M230LF is ready for whatever the battlefield throws its way. Northrop Grumman has once again proven that when it comes to innovation, their chain gun is second to none.
And with the M230LF, they’ve set a new standard for medium-caliber cannons—one that’s going to change how ground forces engage the enemy for years to come.
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Disclaimer: SOFREP utilizes AI for image generation and article research. Occasionally, it’s like handing a chimpanzee the keys to your liquor cabinet. It’s not always perfect and if a mistake is made, we own up to it full stop. In a world where information comes at us in tidal waves, it is an important tool that helps us sift through the brass for live rounds.
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