INTRO TO M2/M3 BFV - OD0456 - LESSON 1/TASK 1
(10) M231 Firing Port Weapons.
There are six M231 5.56mm sub-
machineguns, commonly referred to as the firing port weapons, on the IFV
version of the BFV. The M231 sub-machineguns are mounted in six ball ports,
and are located in the hull sides and rear so each squad member can fire
when seated while using an periscope sight. The firing port weapon is fully
automatic, firing up to 1300 rounds per minute from the open bolt position.
(11) Crew Member's Weapon.
In addition to the weapons assigned to the
vehicle, each crew member is issued his normal weapon as an infantry squad
member, for use when dismounted.
The individual crew served weapons are:
the M60 machinegun, M16A1/A2 rifle, squad automatic weapon (SAW), or the
Dragon, light anti-tank weapon (LAW), or Viper missiles.
(12) Crew Member's Weapon Stowage.
Provisions are made for stowing each
of these weapons in racks distributed throughout the vehicle.
(13) Ammunition Stowage. The IFV vehicle design provides for ammunition
stowage, as well as ready boxes for weapons using metallic linked belt (MLB)
ammunition in the quantities listed below.
QUANTITY
TYPE
READY/STOWED
25mm
300/600
7.62mm (M240C)
800/1540
5.56mm (M60)
2200 stowed
5.56mm (firing port)
4200
5.56mm (M16A1/A2)
2520 stowed
TOW missiles
2 in launcher
TOW/DRAGON missiles
5 stowed, in any
combination
LAW (M72A2)
3 stowed
(14) Summary. This variety of weapons systems enables the BFV to acquire
and engage targets that range from point-blank to over 3,500 meters.
The
weapons can perform this in any visibility condition, and with the vehicle
either stationary or moving. These qualities, combined with the vehicle's
mobility and armor protection, make the BFV one of the most effective
fighting vehicles in the world.
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