20 mm modèle F2 gun
| Industry | Defense |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1973 |
| Products | Firearms, autocannons |
The 20 mm modèle F2 cannon serves as a naval defense autocannon utilized by the French Navy. It originates from the GIAT M693, which in turn is based on the Hispano-Suiza HS.820, and fires 20×139 mm ammunition.
History
In the 1980s, there was an increased need for a contemporary 20 mm naval defense weapon to succeed the Oerlikon 20 mm cannon. To address this, DCN and GIAT teamed up to create the F2, a naval-adapted variant of the M693 employed by the French Army and exported worldwide.
Description
The 20 mm F2 is designed with a mounted monotube configuration and includes two 150-round magazines positioned on either side. Its electrical firing system provides three selectable modes: single shot, eight-round burst, or sustained fire. Switching between ammunition feeds during firing is facilitated by an electrical trigger combined with a manual selector, enabling mixed ammo usage. Ejected spent cartridges are discharged beneath the weapon.
Targeting is aided by an optical sight shared with both the Bofors 40 mm gun and Oerlikon 20 mm cannon, while aiming is controlled through the operator’s bodily movements.
Usage
This F2 autocannon has been supplied to countries including Belgium, Indonesia, Malawi, the Netherlands, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia. It is mainly mounted on Tripartite-class minesweepers along with other ship classes.
Within the French Navy, the F2 armament is deployed on: