GAU-12 Equalizer
| GAU-12/U Equalizer | |
|---|---|
| Type | Rotary cannon |
| Place of origin | United States |
| Production history | |
| Designer | General Electric |
| Manufacturer | General Dynamics |
| Specifications | |
| Mass | GAU-12: 270 pounds (120 kg) with feed system GAU-22: 230 pounds (100 kg) without feed system |
| Length | 83.2 in (2.11 m) |
| Width | GAU-12: 11.5 inches (290 mm) GAU-22: 11.1–13.3 inches (280–340 mm) |
| Height | 10.2 inches (260 mm) |
| Cartridge | 25 × 137 mm |
| Caliber | 25 mm (0.98 in) |
| Barrels | GAU-12: 5-barrel GAU-22: 4-barrel (progressive RH parabolic twist, 11 grooves) |
| Action | Hydraulic, Electric, Pneumatic |
| Rate of fire | GAU-12: 1,800–4,200 rounds per minute GAU-22: 3,300 rounds per minute |
| Muzzle velocity | (HEI) 3,400 ft/s (1,040 m/s); (API) 3,280 ft/s (1,000 m/s); (APEX) 3,200 ft/s (970 m/s) |
| Maximum firing range | 12,000 feet (3,660 m) |
| Feed system | Linked or linkless |
| Sights | Lead Computing Optical Sight System (LCOSS) |
The General Dynamics GAU-12/U Equalizer is a five-barrel 25 mm Gatling-type rotary cannon. The GAU-12/U is used by the United States, Italy and Spain, which mount the weapon in their attack jets such as the AV-8B Harrier II, airborne gunships such as the Lockheed AC-130, and land-based fighting vehicles. A lighter four-barrel version, designated GAU-22/A, is mounted on F-35 Lightning II fighter jets.