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American defence prime Northrop Grumman has announced the imminent live fire demonstrations for an M230 Link Fed Dual Feed Bushmaster Chain Gun with two ammunition feed paths for the first time.
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The new development will use a 30x113mm medium calibre chain gun variant of the M230LF chain gun to counter uncrewed aerial threats and ground engagements.
The addition of a dual feed system will reportedly replace the need for mixed ammunition belts in a single feed.
The M230LF is currently at Technology Readiness Level 6. Meeting this threshold enables the capability to undergo live fire demonstrations that are currently scheduled for early 2025.
“The M230LF Dual Feed Bushmaster Chain Gun offers new flexibility by switching between ammunition paths using dual feed technology,” Northrop Grumman armament systems vice president Dave Fine said.
“Using advanced technology combined with five decades of battle-proven experience, this next-generation cannon will empower operators to quickly respond to threats.
“This chain gun is the latest in our Bushmaster line to deliver reliable, multi-mission capabilities addressing the evolving threat environment.”
A standard recommended ammunition load includes XM1211 proximity fused rounds for counter unmanned aerial systems and XM1198 high explosive, dual purpose rounds for anti-armour capability. The cannon’s system can instantly switch between ammunition paths, enabling operators to seamlessly address targets that require different 30x113mm ammunition types.
A dual feed system gives operators the option to change between advanced ammunition rounds with the flip of a switch, delivering increased mission flexibility and lethality, according to Northrop Grumman.
The ability to select between two different rounds reportedly ensures targets are addressed with the best ammunition for the target type, saving time, reducing logistical burdens and allowing for more engagements before needing to reload the system.
For operators already using the M230LF, the Bushmaster loads out at a similar weight to the single feed M230LF and features 60 per cent part commonality, leading to faster routine repairs and decreased down time for maintenance. Single feed M230LF cannons will continue to be produced for NG customers that prefer that option.
