Raid Hunter Designed to Add Another Defensive Layer Against Airborne ThreatsNorthrop Grumman is developing Raid Hunter Gun-Based Air Defense, a new weapon system intended to reinforce short-range defenses against a changing range of airborne threats.The system brings together several components, including networked control systems, advanced battle-management functions, Chain Gun technology, and 50mm ammunition. Its objective is to provide military forces with a gun-based option capable of sustained engagements.Unlike systems that rely on a small number of missile interceptors, Raid Hunter is built around a high rate of fire and a large ammunition supply. The system is also designed to reload quickly, allowing it to remain available for continued engagements.Another feature is the use of guided 50mm projectiles. Guidance technology is intended to improve the effectiveness of the ammunition against airborne targets while retaining the firing volume associated with a gun system.The system’s networked design allows it to work with controllers and battle-management capabilities. This approach can help integrate the weapon into a larger layered air-defense structure rather than treating it as an isolated weapon.Layered defenses are becoming increasingly important as military forces face a wider variety of airborne threats. A combination of sensors, command systems, missiles, and guns can provide different methods of responding to threats at various ranges.Raid Hunter is therefore positioned as an additional defensive capability. Its combination of guided ammunition, rapid firing, large magazines, and networked control is intended to give operators another option for protecting important military assets from airborne threats.
