When was the M61 Vulcan first used in aerial combat?
The M61 Vulcan was first used in aerial combat on the 4th of April 1965. This engagement involved North Vietnamese MiG-17s attacking a force of F-100 Super Sabres and F-105 Thunderchiefs.
Questions about M61 Vulcan
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Who manufactured the M61 Vulcan originally and who makes it now?
General Electric originally produced the M61 Vulcan before General Dynamics took over production following several mergers and acquisitions. Sumitomo Heavy Industries manufactures the weapon under license for Japan's Self-Defense Force, while SNT Dynamics produces it in South Korea.
What is the rate of fire for the M61 Vulcan cannon?
The M61 Vulcan fires at a rate of approximately 100 rounds per second or 6,000 rounds per minute. The six barrels rotate to provide this high volume of fire while minimizing barrel erosion and heat generation.
How many MiG aircraft were destroyed by the M61A1 between 1966 and 1972?
Combat records show that 39 total MiG-17s and another six MiG-21s were destroyed by the M61A1 between 1966 and 1972. The first confirmed gun kill occurred on the 29th of June 1966 when Major Fred Tracy fired into a MiG-17.
When did the Ukrainian Air Force claim an F-16 shot down Russian cruise missiles using the M61 Vulcan?
On the 13th of December 2024, the Ukrainian Air Force claimed an F-16 shot down six Russian cruise missiles using the M61 Vulcan 20 mm cannon. The pilot stated that bursts from the cannon caused explosions followed by secondary detonations.