Rheinmetall RMK30

It is a three-chamber revolver cannon; the revolver and firing mechanism are driven by an electric motor, allowing variable rates of fire of up to 300 rounds/min. A fraction of the propellant gases is ejected to the rear of the cannon, compensating for the recoil and allowing lightweight and less rigid mounts. Though recoilless, the RMK 30 has a higher muzzle energy than conventional 30 mm autocannons. RMK 30 cannons have been proposed as upgrade for the Bundeswehr's (German armed forces) Tiger UHT attack helicopters. The UHT version currently lacks a gun, since the German Army was not happy with the recoil, accuracy and the range of the French GIAT 30 mm cannon which is fitted to other Tiger versions. In 1996 it was tested mounted on a Wiesel AWC. An unusual study (Project MORAINE) suggests mounting an RMK 30 gun in a retractable mast on a Type 212 submarine. Such masts would extend the capabilities of submarines, which currently lack appropriate means to fight small surface targets or just give warning shots. This study has directly led to the Muraena concept.

• Name — Rheinmetall RMK30 • Origin — Germany • Type — Autocannon • Is Ranged — yes • Is Artillery — yes • Production Date — 1997 • Weight — 100 kg • Length — 2,340 mm • Part Length — 1,700 mm • Cartridge — 30 × 250 mm caseless • Barrels — 1 • Action — three-chamber revolver cannon • Rate — 300 rpm

• Illustration — MURAENA mast for RMK30 (Project MORAINE) on TechDemo 2008