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Machine-linked autocannon

From Halopedia, the Halo wiki

Machine-linked autocannon
SabreCannon.jpg
Production overview

Type:

Coilgun[1]

Specifications

Ammunition type:

Subcaliber[2]

Operation:

Asynchronous linear-induction motor[2]

Rate of fire:

Automatic

Effective range:

Medium-long

Service history

In service:

 

The machine-linked autocannon (MLA) is a classification of coilgun mounted as turrets on various space fighters in service with the United Nations Space Command.[1]

Specifications

Design details

These autocannons use electromagnetic asynchronous linear-induction motor (ALIM) technology to fire hyperdense projectiles at velocities unmatched by chemical energy-based weaponry.[2]

Numerous starfighters in service with the UNSC are equipped with machine-linked autocannons. These include exoatmospheric craft like GA-TL1 Longswords, YSS-1000 Sabres, F-41 Broadswords, and even suborbital bombers like the B-65 Shortsword. Several models of the autocannon exist, while the calibre of the rounds ranging from 30mm to 50mm. The autocannons are very effective in engaging hostile spacecraft, such as Phantoms and Type-31 Seraphs.[3][4]

Models

M9109 ASW/AC 50mm

The GA-TL1 Longsword fighter is equipped with eight M9109 coilguns that fire 50mm projectiles at such speeds that they immediately begin to burn up from air friction when fired within an atmosphere.[2] They are often used in an air-to-surface combat capacity during tactical strikes. The Longsword's autocannons are very effective against Covenant Type-31 Seraph.[3][5]

M8545 ASW/AC 40mm

When their advanced stealth system fails them, Winter-class prowlers are equipped with twin M8545 autocannon.[6] Lightly armed, these autocannons are only a last resort as the prowlers are designed to evade and escape threats.[7]

M1075 ASW/AC 35mm

The F-41 Broadsword fighter is equipped with two rapid-fire M1075 autocannons.[8] The autocannon is not rigidly attached to the fighter's hull, but is on retractable, semi-articulated armatures.[9] The versatility of these autocannons allows it to target hostiles with ease. It is very powerful, being able to effectively eliminate Forerunner weaponry, such as Z-8250 light artillery.[10]

M1024 ASW/AC 30mm

Two M1024 cannons are mounted on the YSS-1000 Sabre as its main armament.[3][11] The Sabre is armed with two cannons, one on each wing, situated close to the cockpit. The cannons fire 30mm rounds that travel slowly and requires the pilot to lead the shots. The cannons are very powerful and can take out a Banshee in one or two shots and can quickly take out a Type-31 Seraph starfighter's shielding, leaving it vulnerable to homing missiles.[12]

M955 ASW/AC 30mm

The B-65 Shortsword is equipped with several M955 autocannons that fire 30mm projectiles. The autocannons complement the Shortsword's M/RODAS delivery system, allowing it to engage hostile aircraft.[13]

List of appearances

Sources

  1. ^ a b Halo: Warfleet, p. 91
  2. ^ a b c d Halo: Warfleet, p. 17
  3. ^ a b c Halo: Reach, Game Manual
  4. ^ Halo: The Essential Visual Guide
  5. ^ Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, p. 112
  6. ^ Halo: Warfleet, p. 46
  7. ^ Halo Waypoint: ONI Acrisius
  8. ^ Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide, p. 114
  9. ^ Halo: Warfleet, p. 28
  10. ^ Halo 4, campaign level, "Midnight"
  11. ^ Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, p. 161
  12. ^ Halo: Reach, campaign level, "Long Night of Solace"
  13. ^ Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, p. 176