NIFTY: U.S. Army Plans To Adapt Its 50mm Chain Gun For Counter UAS.

The service on Aug. 10 released a solicitation to integrate the gun into a system that can track and shoot down Group 1-3 uncrewed aircraft systems. The solicitation, from the Project Manager Maneuver Ammunition Systems, is to support a potential development program and demonstration efforts, although no requirements have been set yet. Responses are due by Aug. 24.

The Army selected the Picatinny Arsenal-designed XM913 chain gun for its Next Generation Combat Vehicle.

Along with the solicitation and to coincide with the annual Space and Missile Defense Symposium here, companies are showcasing their proposals to use new ammunition for counter UAS. Northrop Grumman, for example, released a breakdown of its plans to use the Bushmaster family of chain guns and proximity ammunition for the role.

They’ll end up needing 10 times more ammo than they’ll plan for.