Q&A · 3:27:50-3:28:07

Choosing the Bofors over the Oerlikon

The 40 mm Bofors wins on punch and range at a broadly comparable rate of fire.

Anti Aircraft Weapons Bofors Naval Air Defence Oerlikon

Question

Would you choose 40 mm Bofors or 20 mm Oerlikons, and why?

Short answer

Bofors: it has greater punch and range at a broadly similar rate of fire, matching the available radar-directed engagement problem.

Notes

Between the 40 mm Bofors and 20 mm Oerlikon, the Bofors is the choice here. It offers more striking power and longer range at a broadly similar rate of fire. Its engagement range also fits the radar systems then available to the Royal Navy.