GAU-12 Equalizer

GAU-12/U Equalizer
TypeRotary cannon
Place of originUnited States
Production history
DesignerGeneral Electric
ManufacturerGeneral Dynamics
Specifications
MassGAU-12: 270 pounds (120 kg) with feed system
GAU-22: 230 pounds (100 kg) without feed system
Length83.2 in (2.11 m)
WidthGAU-12: 11.5 inches (290 mm)
GAU-22: 11.1–13.3 inches (280–340 mm)
Height10.2 inches (260 mm)

Cartridge25 × 137 mm
Caliber25 mm (0.98 in)
BarrelsGAU-12: 5-barrel
GAU-22: 4-barrel
(progressive RH parabolic twist, 11 grooves)
ActionHydraulic, Electric, Pneumatic
Rate of fireGAU-12: 1,800–4,200 rounds per minute
GAU-22: 3,300 rounds per minute
Muzzle velocity(HEI) 3,400 ft/s (1,040 m/s); (API) 3,280 ft/s (1,000 m/s); (APEX) 3,200 ft/s (970 m/s)
Maximum firing range12,000 feet (3,660 m)
Feed systemLinked or linkless
SightsLead Computing Optical Sight System (LCOSS)

The General Dynamics GAU-12/U Equalizer is a five-barrel 25 mm Gatling-type rotary cannon. The GAU-12/U is used by the United States, Italy and Spain, which mount the weapon in their attack jets such as the AV-8B Harrier II, airborne gunships such as the Lockheed AC-130, and land-based fighting vehicles. A lighter four-barrel version, designated GAU-22/A, is mounted on F-35 Lightning II fighter jets.