The Mk44 Bushmaster II is a versatile chain gun powering modern military vehicles worldwide.

Wars & Conflicts · Published 15 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Derived from the earlier 25mm M242, the Mk44 Bushmaster II chain gun offers significantly increased firepower and modularity. Used by navies and armies across the globe, this 30mm weapon system has evolved into specialized variants capable of engaging everything from high-speed surface craft to small, agile unmanned aerial vehicles.

The Mk44 Bushmaster II is a 30mm chain gun manufactured by Northrop Grumman that shares approximately 70% of its components with the 25mm M242 Bushmaster. Despite this lineage, the Mk44 provides up to 50% more firepower, aided by a 20% increase in caliber size and a chromium-plated barrel designed for extended operational life. The system is highly adaptable, capable of firing standard GAU-8 Avenger ammunition, including armor-piercing and high-explosive variants. Furthermore, the gun can be converted to use 40x180mm SuperShot or 30x170mm RARDEN cartridges by replacing the barrel and specific internal parts.

Beyond its standard configuration, the platform has seen significant evolution. The Mk44 STRETCH variant was developed to fire airburst munitions, while the XM813—an upgrade designed for U.S. Army vehicles like the Stryker and Bradley—features a longer barrel and an integral mount to improve first-round hit probability. This variant also incorporates a dual recoil system to manage the heat of modern propellants and a linkless feed system. These enhancements allow the cannon to engage targets in defilade, where they would otherwise be protected from direct fire, significantly increasing the lethality of armored units.

The system's utility extends far beyond land vehicles. Navies utilize the Mk44 in various weapon stations, such as the Mk 46 Mod 2 Gun Weapon System, to defend against small, high-speed surface threats. In recent years, the cannon has been adapted for counter-UAS roles, with systems like the Terrahawk Paladin integrating radars and electro-optical sensors to engage small drones. Whether mounted on a frigate or a mobile truck, the Bushmaster II remains a cornerstone of modern tactical defense, with ongoing developments focused on precision, reliability, and the ability to counter emerging aerial threats.

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