Boeing Unveils New JSF-Derived Gun

The Boeing-led team developing the gun for the Joint Strike Fighter is striking out further, now offering a new gun pod using the same technology that will make its way onto JSF. It's being showcased here at Le Bourget as part of the U.S. Defense Department's exhibit.

The weapons systems is being developed cooperatively by Mauser-Waffensysteme, Western Design, and Sargent Fletcher, Inc. It comprises a pod, 27-mm cannon, and ammunition feed system. The gas-operated gun operates at a rate of 1,800 shots per minute. It uses a revolver breech approach and has a blast bottle incorporated into the system to reduce signature. Pilots can use the weapon flying either subsonic or supersonic.

The system would be mounted to an aircraft with a special hardback adaptor to minimize gun movement and ensure firing accuracy. The gun position can be varied for air-to-air or air-to-ground operations. A cockpit selector can alter the gun's firing line elevation from +1 degree to ­3 degrees.

Boeing says the pod can be reloaded within five minutes and entirely removed or installed in ten minutes. Delivery could begin within 18 months.