Northrop Grumman Develops Next-Gen M230LF Dual-Feed Bushmaster Gun for Adaptive Threat Response.

On October 9, 2024, Northrop Grumman Corporation, a major manufacturer of medium-caliber cannons, unveiled its M230 Link Fed (M230LF) Dual Feed Bushmaster Chain Gun. This new 30x113 mm caliber cannon addresses modern ground combat and uncrewed aerial system (C-UAS) defense needs with a pioneering dual-feed mechanism, allowing operators to switch between two ammunition types instantly based on the target. This feature eliminates the need for mixed ammunition belts in a single feed, enhancing engagement precision and efficiency.
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Northrop Grumman 30x113 mm M230LF Dual-Feed Bushmaster Chain Gun (Picture source: Northrop Grumman)

The M230LF's dual-feed technology enables operators to easily switch between two recommended munitions: XM1211 proximity-fuzed rounds, optimized for neutralizing uncrewed aerial threats, and XM1198 high-explosive, dual-purpose rounds for anti-armor capabilities. This system simplifies logistics, improves ammunition management, and enables forces to respond to various threats in real-time. Currently at Technology Readiness Level 6 (TRL 6), the M230LF is set to begin live-fire demonstrations in early 2025, marking a significant step in operational readiness.

The M230LF Dual Feed Bushmaster offers unprecedented tactical flexibility for armed forces with its instant ammunition-switching capability, removing the need for mixed ammunition belts. This innovation allows operators to respond quickly to various threats, including uncrewed drones and armored ground targets, with the most suitable ammunition for each target. Furthermore, its lightweight design and 60% part commonality with previous M230LF versions facilitate maintenance and reduce logistical costs, enhancing operational availability and field efficiency.

Designed with a weight similar to the single-feed M230LF model, the new dual-feed cannon integrates 60% common parts with existing models. This continuity simplifies maintenance, enabling a seamless transition for current M230LF users and minimizing maintenance costs. Northrop Grumman will continue to produce the single-feed M230LF to cater to customers preferring that option.

The M230LF Dual Feed Bushmaster has garnered significant international interest, especially among European allies, despite the lack of a formal requirement from the U.S. Armed Forces. The M230LF Dual Feed Bushmaster has sparked considerable interest, particularly among European allies such as Germany, the United Kingdom, and several NATO-aligned Eastern European nations. This demand reflects Europe’s increasing need for versatile weapons systems capable of countering both airborne and armored threats in complex operational environments. With heightened emphasis on counter-uncrewed aerial systems (C-UAS) and anti-armor capabilities, the dual-feed flexibility of the M230LF allows operators to rapidly switch between XM1211 proximity-fuzed rounds for aerial defense and XM1198 high-explosive rounds for ground targets, enhancing mission adaptability and response speed.

Dual-feed chain gun technology like that of Northrop Grumman’s M230LF is unique but not entirely without precedent, as some advanced armored forces around the world employ similar dual-feed systems for versatile ammunition use. For instance, certain European and NATO member countries have incorporated dual-feed mechanisms in armored vehicles, notably in autocannons like the Rheinmetall Mk 30-2/ABM used on the German Puma IFV, which allows quick switching between armor-piercing and high-explosive rounds. Such capabilities are particularly sought after in systems designed to counter varied threats, ranging from drones to heavily armored targets, emphasizing adaptability in modern combat scenarios.