General Atomics Tests Direct Fire Gun Pod for Uncrewed Aircraft
General Atomics Tests Direct Fire Gun Pod for Uncrewed Aircraft, a leading manufacturer of unmanned air vehicles (UAVs), is pioneering the integration of direct-fire weaponry onto its platforms. In collaboration with Dillon Aero, a renowned armaments producer, General Atomics is currently conducting live-fire tests for a direct-fire gun pod designed for several of its UAV models. This development marks a significant stride in enhancing the versatility and combat capabilities of unmanned aerial systems.
Unleashing Precision and Firepower
At the heart of this innovation lies the DAP-6 podded minigun, a derivative of Dillon’s formidable six-barreled M134 gun. Engineered to fire the 7.62 x 51mm NATO cartridge, this electrically-powered machine gun boasts an impressive firing rate of 3,000 rounds per minute, with an effective range extending up to 1.2 kilometers (0.75 miles). General Atomics’ decision to outfit its UAVs, starting with the Mojave short take-off and landing model, with the DAP-6 guns signifies a strategic move towards augmenting their offensive capabilities.
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The Vanguard of Multi Role UAV Operations
The Mojave, a derivative of General Atomics’ esteemed Predator family, emerges as the vanguard of multi-role UAV operations. Equipped with the capacity to carry 16 Lockheed Martin AGM-114 Hellfire air-to-ground missiles, the addition of direct-fire weaponry further amplifies its role as a versatile combat asset. President David Alexander emphasizes Mojave’s ability to function as a sensor, shooter, and sustainer, while effectively navigating diverse threat environments and safeguarding human lives. This amalgamation of firepower and intelligence solidifies Mojave’s position as a formidable expeditionary aircraft capable of operating from remote forward bases with minimal infrastructure requirements.
Pioneering Future Possibilities in Unmanned Warfare
As General Atomics continues to push the boundaries of unmanned warfare, the integration of direct-fire capabilities onto platforms like the Mojave sets a precedent for future advancements. The company’s commitment to innovation extends to other UAV models, with plans underway to develop DAP-6 wing kits for the MQ-9B SkyGuardian, including its maritime variant, SeaGuardian. With the potential for aircraft carrier based operations and the adaptability to operate from diverse terrains, General Atomics’ UAVs are poised to redefine the landscape of modern aerial warfare.
General Atomics’ endeavor to integrate direct-fire gun pods onto its UAVs represents a significant leap forward in enhancing their combat capabilities. With the Mojave leading the charge as a versatile multi-role aircraft, equipped to handle diverse mission objectives, the future of unmanned warfare looks increasingly dynamic and formidable.
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