Q&A · 3:12:43-3:13:08

Were there serious alternatives to Pom-Pom and Bofors?

Germany's use of Bofors illustrates the limited alternatives and the importance of earlier investment choices.

Bofors 40 mm Naval Anti Aircraft Weapons Pom Pom Guns War Production

Question

Did other countries have good World War II 40 mm contenders besides the Pom-Pom and Bofors?

Short answer

Few convincing alternatives are identified; even Germany used Bofors, and investment choices limited the available options.

Notes

Few convincing alternatives are identified to the Pom-Pom and Bofors. Germany's eventual use of Bofors illustrates the limited choice. Which weapons countries were prepared to fund determined the options available.