An Effectiveness Evaluation of Several Alternative Automatic Cannon System Concepts.

Abstract : This study estimated both the target acquisition capability of attack helicopters and the effectiveness levels achieved by automatic cannons against targets located beyond 2000 meters range. Line-of-sight, atmospheric visibility, and target detection probabilities were generated in the analyses of target acquisition. Five automatic cannon system concepts were evaluated. The cannon systems are described only by those characteristics affecting their target defeat capability. However, delivery errors were analyzed in detail. Effectiveness levels against two personnel targets and three materiel targets were determined. The results show that target acquisition capability beyond 2000 meters range is limited. However, if the targets can be acquired each of the five cannon systems can defeat personnel targets at ranges up to 4000 meters. Only one system, a high performance, accurate 30mm cannon, achieves relatively high levels effectiveness against materiel targets.