M9109 ASW/AC MLA
From Halopedia, the Halo wiki
A M9109 ASW/AC 50mm MLA'[1], also known as the Point Defence Guns is a United Nations Space Command starship-mounted weapon that fires 50mm high-explosive projectiles.[2]
Design details
Functionality
The M9109 functions much like the CIWS designs created during the 20th Century, firing 50mm projectiles. Unlike Archer missiles and the MAC weapon systems mounted on capital ships, the Point-Defense Guns are not used to engage Covenant capital ships, instead meant to intercept smaller threats like Seraph fighters[3] or boarding craft to prevent (or at least lessen) the damage inflicted to a warship.
Because human operators lack the reflexive responses necessary to operate the point-defense guns to maximum effect, the autocannons are computer controlled and, if an AI is available, control is diverted to it. "Smart" AI's seem better able to operate the Point-Defense Guns than standard computers and and also lesser "dumb" AI's.[4]
Operational history
During the human occupation of Installation 04, the ODSTs that recaptured and secured the wreckage of the UNSC Pillar of Autumn from the Covenant managed to scavenge[5] several dual barreled[2] 50mm turrets. The ODSTs utilised the scavenged defense weapons and used them as anti-air defensive emplacements at Alpha Base. The GA-TL1 Longsword Interceptor is also equipped with these turrets, used in an air-to-surface combat capacity during tactical strikes.[6]
Gallery
A Halcyon-class cruiser defending itself form the Covenant boarding crafts using its point defense guns.
- UNSC Savannah.jpg
The UNSC Savannah using its point-defense guns against the Ardent Prayer in Operation: UPPERCUT.
Sources
- ^ Halo: reach - Game Manual
- ^ a b Halo: The Flood, page 215
- ^ Halo: The Fall of Reach, page 272
- ^ Halo: The Flood, page 137
- ^ Halo: Reach - Game Manual
