What kind of rate of fire and target acquisition rate will there be? If they're sufficiently good, this might end up as a point defense weapon(IE: a weapon designed to shoot down incoming missiles) as well.
It's not intended to replace missile systems. The story indicates a range of about 6 miles, putting it in a class more similar to the cannon. Although from what I've noted so far, assuming sufficient slew rate in the turret and rate of fire, I'd think one of its primary uses would be point defence (ie: shooting down missiles fired at the plane), a function for which there is no current system to replace.
Found a site with some rather extensive length/weight information for various types of weapons, including swords of all types. The heaviest sword listed was ~15 pounds, and was greatsword over 6 feet long. 40-50lb. in a sword is just absurd. http://www.busprod.com/the_burg/sca/rapier.htm
A traditional broadsword would NOT weigh 40-50 pounds, but in face, is closer to the 5-10you suggested for this high-tech sword. The heavier end is usually about 1 lb. per foot, with many being even lighter than that.
Slashdot Mirror
What kind of rate of fire and target acquisition rate will there be? If they're sufficiently good, this might end up as a point defense weapon(IE: a weapon designed to shoot down incoming missiles) as well.
It's not intended to replace missile systems. The story indicates a range of about 6 miles, putting it in a class more similar to the cannon. Although from what I've noted so far, assuming sufficient slew rate in the turret and rate of fire, I'd think one of its primary uses would be point defence (ie: shooting down missiles fired at the plane), a function for which there is no current system to replace.
mst3k it.
This has some very amusing stuff under the "Mystery Usenet Theater 3000" section.
Found a site with some rather extensive length/weight information for various types of weapons, including swords of all types. The heaviest sword listed was ~15 pounds, and was greatsword over 6 feet long. 40-50lb. in a sword is just absurd. http://www.busprod.com/the_burg/sca/rapier.htm
A traditional broadsword would NOT weigh 40-50 pounds, but in face, is closer to the 5-10you suggested for this high-tech sword. The heavier end is usually about 1 lb. per foot, with many being even lighter than that.