A U.S. Marine Corps LAV-25A2 firing its M242 Bushmaster during a live-fire exercise, circa 2014. The M242 is standard equipment on the U. S. Army M2 and M3 Bradley fighting vehicles; it is also in use on the LAV-25.

The M242 is fed by a metallic link belt and has dual-feed capability which allows the crew to select and load two types of available service ammunition. The M242 fires both European and U.S. 25mm ammunition. The five basic U.S. rounds used with the M242 include the M791, M792, M793, M910, and M919.

U.S. Army M2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicle and U.S. Marine Corps LAV-25 light armored vehicle crews load ammunition and fire their M242 Bushmaster 25 mm chain guns during gunnery training....

One of the key features of the M242 is its impressive firing rate, capable of reaching up to 200 rounds per minute. This rapid rate of fire allows for suppressive fire, enabling friendly forces to maneuver or advance safely.

Unlike most automatic firearms, the M242 does not depend on gas or recoil to actuate its firing system. Instead, it uses a 1.0 hp (750 W) DC motor, positioned in the receiver to drive the chain and dual-feed system.

The M242 is the primary armament on the U.S. Army’s and allied Bradley Fighting Vehicle, as well as the U.S. Marine Corp’s Light Armored Vehicle, featuring dual-feed technology to fire 25x137 ammunition. It also adapts to many naval applications.

Nov 28, 2015 · The M242 is different than other automatic firearms because it uses a 1-hp DC motor instead of gas or recoil for activating the firing system. It has a three-part weapon assembly that includes the receiver, the barrel, and the feeder.

An externally operated MK 38 Mod 2 naval mount firing its 25mm Bushmaster cannon as indicated by the shell casings in the air. Source: US Navy (Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jason R. Zalasky)

Mar 1, 2001 · Since the hard-hitting, multi purpose 25mm M242 version weighs over 230 lbs and has an effective range in excess of 3000 meters, the best way to maximize its lethality is to put it in what might be called the ultimate machine gun ground mount.

Sailors assigned to the USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) conduct a live-fire exercise while at sea, Feb. 5, 2013. The 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) is aboard the Kearsarge conducting Composite...