The OICW rifle undercarriage uses a 5.56mm round just like the M-16, but has a unique 20mm Cannon on top that can be programmed to explode at a specific range.
I am worried that the 20mm system might be too complicated for a heated battle, and that distance errors could cause premature explosions (like what happened in an OICW test, which broke the shooter’s hand).
What do you think, is the OICW the true next generation in MBRs?
My first thought when I read about it some months ago was “who’s gonna carry all that ammo”?
The weapon weighs better then 20 pounds, who will carry that. This is one of the reasons that the m-60 is being replaced with the M-240 SAW. Then there is the problem with the electronics being reliable. It would not be a good thing to have to reboot the rifle due to computer failure durring a fire fight.
From reading the linked FAQ… The proposed final weight is about 14lbs, and is claimed to be comparable to today when you account for the bells and whistles added to the M16. It will still fire with the battery dead or computer damaged, but you lose the advanced functions. You have iron sights and impact detonation on the 20mm. The 5.56 weapon is also detachable. The expected distribution is 4 OICWs per 9 person squad.
I think the 20mm is not intended to be used in the midst of a crazy fire fight, but when you’re hunkered down and can take a carefully aimed shot. For instance, the ‘window’ mode will automatically detonate the 20mm when it enters a room. Lase the building wall, fire through the window, and it detonates inside.
I think they’re going to push this technology hard, it has the potential to completely alter firefights. No longer will hiding behind a tree, or in a hole, or behind a wall be protection. That’s huge.
That’s what I think too, with disciplined use I think the OICW can be incredible. Almost as good as a hand-held metal storm!
I wonder how they will decide in the unit who gets an OICW and who gets an M16?
Something like the OICW has been in the offing for years. A number of rifle-plus-GL have always been just around the corner. It seems making it actually work is a big brown bear.
Even if the OICW does make it to production, it will never replace the M16 family for most of the Army. Most of the Army are not infantrymen after all. We barely have time to run our clerks, drivers, mechanics and whatnot through rifle marksmanship as it is.
The addition of a GL may be a good idea for infantrymen, but it is hard to accept that pharmacists need one.
I question the whole idea of “every man a grenadier,” but Benning has a ton of studies showing it works. I myself have never been in a situation where it would have been very helpful.
Better to spend the time and money on improving accuracy.
It seems to me it might be extremely effective both for urban use, and for firing over trenches. Also, it’s a lot more accurate than the m16’s 40mm grenade launcher.
Anyone know what percentage of infantryman have the 40mm attachment?
Two in each nine-man squad. Plus of course a number issued to MP, cooks and all the rest.
Sure, it would be nifty. So would a lot things. It is an issue (first off) or practicality and then of cost-benefit.
The expense will be huge. New weapons, tons of new ammo, new weapons racks, training ranges, it just keeps adding up. Would moving to the OICW be worth (pick a random number) billion dollars?
I dunno. But it is an excellent question.