Linkless Ammunition Loading System Improvements

The Navy currently utilize an unreliable linkless ammunition loading system (LALS) for servicing aircraft resulting in considerable downtime that hinders mission readiness. This system up- and downloads 20 mm ammunition for the M61A1 and M61A2 gun systems installed in Navy operated F/A-18 aircraft. In order to improve system reliability and availability, Mainstream proposes to develop drop-in replacement components for high failure rate LALS component assemblies. These new assemblies will prioritize simplicity and reducing moving parts to improve system reliability. During the Phase I effort Mainstream will analyze the current system, develop designs for drop-in replacement components, and test prototype features from the new designs. In Phase II, a full-scale prototype of each replacement component will be fabricated for integration and testing in the LALS.