EOS Defence Systems personnel have completed two weeks training on the operation and maintenance of the Northrop Grumman Mk44S 30mm x 173 cannon.
This cannon is used on a number of EOS products, including the R800 Remote Weapon Station and the T2000 turret.
“This training is another key part of EOS’ sovereign capability in weapon system design. It gives our trainers and maintainers a depth of knowledge critical to the overall operation of our systems," CEO for EOS Defence Systems Grant Sanderson said.
The Mk44S Bushmaster Chain Gun is an auto-cannon that is electrically-operated and unlike gas-operated cannons, weapon recoil is not needed to cycle the weapon or clear stoppages. The Mk44S is used by 19 nations and 34 users – including the US, the UK, Singapore and South Korea.
“The Mk44S has greater fire power than the M242 25mm and significant additional capabilities such as programmable rounds and the ability to upgrade to the 40mm Supershot system," EOS Instructor and former RAAC Warrant Officer Class 2, Andrew Harvey said.
Every Mk44S is fitted with a breach mounted fuse setter meaning any weapon platform can fire programmable airburst munitions, such as programmable air-burst munition (PABM) for suppressing dug-in and fortified positions and the proximity fused rounds for engaging UAS and helicopters. The upgrade to 40mm Supershot is accomplished with the exchange of three mechanical parts and the reprogramming of the fire control system. This upgrade provides increased firepower without the need to integrate a new cannon.
“The Mk44S is basically a bigger version of the M242 25mm cannon that equips the ASLAV. It is easy to maintain and reliable to operate, and would build on existing training and maintenance systems and expertise if selected by the Australian Army," EOS Instructor and former Regimental Artificer Sergeant Major of 2nd Cavalry Regiment and Armourer, Paul Gibbs said.
“This training gives our team a far greater understanding of how the cannon should be operated and maintained to best effect," Sanderson said.