Ask Ian: Are Man-Portable Chain Guns Coming?

Published on September 1, 2022
Duration: 13:41

This video explores the concept of man-portable chain guns, explaining their external power mechanism and advantages in reliability, especially for clearing dud rounds in remote mounts. While chain guns excel in larger calibers (20-30mm) and specific applications like armored vehicles (e.g., Hughes EX34 in 7.62mm), their added weight from motors and batteries makes them impractical for infantry. Future potential lies in miniaturized versions for unmanned systems.

Quick Summary

A chain gun is an externally powered machine gun that uses a motor and chain to cycle the action, offering superior reliability in ejecting dud rounds. While beneficial for remote mounts and larger calibers, their added weight makes man-portable versions impractical for infantry, though potential exists for unmanned systems.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Man-Portable Chain Guns?
  2. 00:36What is a Chain Gun?
  3. 02:42Chain Gun Advantages: Reliability & Duds
  4. 04:41Large Calibers & Gas Control
  5. 07:29Existing Small Caliber Chain Guns (EX34)
  6. 09:31Why Man-Portable Chain Guns Are Unlikely
  7. 11:16Future: Chain Guns in Unmanned Systems

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a chain gun and how does it differ from other machine guns?

A chain gun is an externally powered machine gun, typically using an electric motor and a physical chain to cycle the action. Unlike gas or recoil-operated systems, this external power source ensures consistent operation and makes it easier to eject dud rounds without stopping the gun.

What are the main advantages of using chain guns?

The primary advantage is enhanced reliability, especially in clearing dud rounds automatically. Chain guns also offer better control over propellant gases, making them suitable for larger calibers and enclosed spaces like tank turrets.

Are man-portable chain guns practical for infantry soldiers?

Generally no. The added weight of the motor and batteries required for a chain gun's operation outweighs the reliability benefits for a soldier who can manually clear malfunctions. They are typically found in heavier applications.

Where might we see chain guns used in the future?

There's potential for miniaturized chain guns in unmanned systems. Applications include ground or aerial drones and remote sentry systems, where their high reliability and continuous operation without direct human intervention are highly valued.

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