Abstract

VAN HEERDEN, A.; KLEINGELD, M.; MATHEWS, E.H.  and  GEYSER, M.F.. The Development of an Automatic Multi Calibre Weapon System. R&D j. (Matieland, Online) [online]. 2007, vol.23, pp.10-17. ISSN 2309-8988.

The competitive drive in the armaments industry resulted in the development of a superior product by the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), which provided the security forces with a world class product. Such a weapon would provide the SANDF with the capability of being deployed anywhere in the world for peacekeeping purposes, enabling the firing of foreign ammunition without intensive use of logistical support. Armament Corporation of South Africa (ARMSCOR requested Vektot^b to develop a multi calibre, rapid firing weapon. The GAMA (Gun Automatic Multiple Ammunition) a unique, multi calibre, rapid firing weapon was developed with the aid of simulation and testing. Simulation at the time did not fully support the contemporary sophisticated tool sets, and therefore a method was designed to use simulation and experimental development interactively. Simulation models were generated modularly whilst phasing it with the acquirement of experimental test data. The primary focus was to develop a weapon capable of firing a range of ammunition which would be fitted to the South African Air-Force (SAAF) new Light Utility Helicopter (LUH). The secondary purpose resided in the marketing of such a product internationally. At the same time, the processes used demonstrated that the local industry can be rated to be on the leading edge of technology.