The Air Force is arming pilots with this longer-range, stand-off rifle to use if they’re ever shot d

[rangerrebew]

The Air Force is arming pilots with this longer-range, stand-off rifle to use if they’re ever shot down
By: Kyle Rempfer  

The Air Force isn’t necessarily known for its small arms programs, but aircrews are about to get a longer range stand-off rifle to use if they are ever shot down behind enemy lines.

The weapon is officially named the GAU-5A Aircrew Self Defense Weapon. It’s a variant of the M4 carbine with a modified quick-release barrel designed by Cry Havoc, according to Maj. Docleia Gibson, an Air Combat Command spokeswoman.

“The [GAU-5A] and four full magazines, 30 rounds [each], must all fit in the ejection seat survival kit,” Gibson said in an emailed statement. “This has driven the dimension of 16 x 14 x 3.5 inches.”

https://www.airforcetimes.com/news/your-air-force/2018/06/28/the-air-force-is-arming-pilots-with-a-longer-range-stand-off-rifle-to-use-if-theyre-ever-shot-down/

[thackney]