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Originally posted by RHClarke
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Not quite. Look at ADATS for an example - in the 80s there was a desparate need for defence from soviet air attack - Blowpipe and Boffin just were not capable of defending our airfields and formations. ADATS was procured, but never fired a missile in anger (although it remains as one of the best multi-purpose missile platforms in the world). [/B]
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Since you seem to be in the know, what is the current operational status of the GDF-005 guns and Skyguard? I've only seen them deployed once in the field at OP MARCOT in '98. While setting up the MAGs at Stephenville airport we also played OPFOR. Four battery's were deployed nearby to defend us. A USAF B1 zoomed us, practicing runway denial by simulating a cluster bomb drop when suddenly the LLAD opened up. The sound of a B1 at full afterburner at an altitude of maybe 150 feet and 8 35mm fully automatic guns firing at a combined rate of 4400 rpm was awe inspiring and rectum voiding at the same time!!
My understanding of LLAD is that these guns are to be deployed alongside of ADATS for comprehensive air defence...aircraft flying nap of earth missions to avoid missiles come within range of the guns. Just deploying the guns, even with the AHEAD shell only provides limited air defence.
I've heard rumours that they are to phased out, to be replaced by what and when?
Maybe DND should consider retaining the GDF-005 for use against ground targets...each battery's two guns can send 35mm shells at 1100rpm downrange out to 9 km. That kind of concentrated fire would be devastating to soft skinned vehicles and personnel.
What are your thoughts, mon ami?
CHIMO!