On February 4, 2009 the Defense technology specialist Metal Storm verified it’s semi-automatic grenade launcher called 3GL. Everything about this gun is unique and high tech. It featured a computer controlled ignition, which makes the 3GL so light and compact that it could actually be attached and used as an accessory on an assault riffle.

Before we see this gun in combat, more steps will have to be made to enhance the ruggedness of the gun. Once the engineering team has done that, the weapon can qualify for military trials.

The advantages of 3GL include:

• Threefold increase in comparative firepower before reload
• Semi automatic rate of fire – fires each time trigger is pulled
• Squad and platoon firepower multiplier
• Selectable munition mix – lethal and less lethal
• Soldier can maintain eye contact with target for multiple shots, unlike M203 where the eye must leave target for reloading
• Fully reloadable with individual rounds – soldiers can top up as required
• Modular weapon that mounts on most individual combat weapons using a picatinny rail mount
• Converts quickly to stand alone weapon including dual barrel option for mission specific needs

The 3GL would be great for urban warfare, like clearing buildings. This is definitely something we’ll see in the future, only a matter of time.

via [metalstorm]