The Stryker Mobile Gun System (MGS) is a variant of the Stryker armored fighting vehicle, designed to provide direct fire support to infantry units. Developed by General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS) Canada, the Stryker MGS is equipped with a 105mm cannon, allowing it to engage a wide range of targets, including armored vehicles, bunkers, and infantry positions. The system is designed to provide a high degree of mobility, survivability, and lethality, making it an effective asset on the modern battlefield.
Design and Development
The Stryker MGS was developed in response to the US Army’s requirement for a mobile gun system that could provide direct fire support to Stryker Brigade Combat Teams (SBCTs). The system is based on the Stryker infantry fighting vehicle, but is equipped with a modified turret that mounts a 105mm M68A1E4 cannon. The cannon is capable of firing a range of ammunition, including armor-piercing fin-stabilized discarding sabot (APFSDS), high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT), and high-explosive (HE) rounds. The Stryker MGS also features a coaxial 0.50-cal machine gun and a 7.62mm machine gun for secondary armament.
Key Features and Capabilities
The Stryker MGS has a number of key features that make it an effective mobile gun system. These include:
- 105mm Cannon: The Stryker MGS is equipped with a 105mm M68A1E4 cannon, which provides a high degree of firepower and versatility.
- Advanced Fire Control System: The system features an advanced fire control system, which includes a laser rangefinder, a thermal sight, and a ballistic computer. This allows the gunner to quickly and accurately engage targets.
- High Degree of Mobility: The Stryker MGS is based on the Stryker infantry fighting vehicle, which provides a high degree of mobility and agility. The system can reach speeds of up to 60mph and has a range of over 300 miles.
- Survivability: The Stryker MGS features a number of survivability enhancements, including armor protection, a fire suppression system, and a collective protection system for the crew.
| Characteristics | Value |
|---|---|
| Crew | 3 (commander, gunner, loader) |
| Weight | approximately 19 tons |
| Length | 23.5 feet |
| Width | 11.9 feet |
| Height | 8.9 feet |
| Top Speed | up to 60mph |
| Range | over 300 miles |
Operational History and Future Developments
The Stryker MGS has seen service with the US Army in a number of operational environments, including Iraq and Afghanistan. The system has proven to be effective in a range of roles, including direct fire support, reconnaissance, and security missions. The US Army has continued to develop and improve the Stryker MGS, with a number of upgrades and modifications planned for the future. These include the integration of new fire control systems and communication systems, as well as the development of new ammunition types.
Comparative Analysis
The Stryker MGS can be compared to other mobile gun systems, such as the M1128 Mobile Gun System and the B1 Centauro. While these systems share some similarities with the Stryker MGS, they also have some key differences. For example, the M1128 Mobile Gun System is equipped with a 105mm cannon, but has a more limited range and mobility than the Stryker MGS. The B1 Centauro, on the other hand, is equipped with a 105mm cannon and has a high degree of mobility, but is larger and more expensive than the Stryker MGS.
What is the primary role of the Stryker MGS?
+The primary role of the Stryker MGS is to provide direct fire support to infantry units. It is designed to engage a wide range of targets, including armored vehicles, bunkers, and infantry positions.
What are the key features of the Stryker MGS?
+The Stryker MGS has a number of key features, including a 105mm cannon, an advanced fire control system, a high degree of mobility, and survivability enhancements. It also features a coaxial 0.50-cal machine gun and a 7.62mm machine gun for secondary armament.
What is the future of the Stryker MGS?
+The US Army has continued to develop and improve the Stryker MGS, with a number of upgrades and modifications planned for the future. These include the integration of new fire control systems and communication systems, as well as the development of new ammunition types.
