The Rikhter R-23: A Unique Gas-Operated Revolver Cannon
Introducing the Rikhter R-23 gas-operated revolver cannon, an intriguing and unique weapon in the realm of firearms.
Design and Functionality
Designed in 1964, this peculiar weapon is the fastest firing single-barrel cannon ever to see service, boasting a rate of fire of up to 2600 RPM! The mechanism by which it operates is quite intricate. The 23mm cartridge design is equally unconventional. In essence, the bullet is positioned at the bottom of the casing rather than at the tip and is fired using an electric primer.
Deployment and Historical Significance
The Rikhter R-23 was mounted in the tail turret of the Tu-22 bomber. Remarkably, it was also mounted on the Almaz space station! This makes the Rikhter R-23 a space cannon—indeed, the Soviets test-fired it in space, making it the only gun officially known to have been successfully fired in space.
Potential Uses and Studies
Additionally, there were studies considering its potential mounting on satellites designed to hunt and eliminate other satellites. This reveals the versatile and forward-thinking applications imagined for this one-of-a-kind cannon.
-RBM.
