Oerlikon KCB

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	Weapon: Oerlikon KCB Type: Autocannon Country of Origin: Switzerland Year Adopted: 1944 Caliber: 30x170mm Action: Gas Operated Fully Automatic Overall Length (mm): 3500.0 Overall Length (in): 137.8 Weight (kg): 138.00 Weight (pounds): 304.24 Effective Range (km): 5 Effective Range (miles): 3.11

The Oerlikon KCB is a 30mm gas-operated autocannon developed by Oerlikon Contraves in Switzerland during the post-World War II period. Derived from earlier 20mm Oerlikon designs, the KCB featured a longer barrel and significantly greater firepower, firing 30x170mm ammunition. It utilized a belt-fed mechanism and could be configured for both single and automatic fire. Its reliable action and high rate of fire made it well-suited for both naval and ground-based air defense applications.

While exact production figures for the Oerlikon KCB remain limited in open sources, it was widely produced and licensed under various names in different countries. For example, in the United Kingdom, it was manufactured under license by BMARC and known as the GCM-A03. It was also integrated into several naval mountings such as the DS30B and DS30M systems, often paired with advanced fire control systems. The cannon was installed on numerous naval vessels of NATO countries, particularly for close-in anti-aircraft and anti-missile defense.

The KCB earned a reputation for reliability and effectiveness, especially in the naval role. Though it was eventually superseded by more modern systems like the 30mm Bushmaster II and automated CIWS units, the KCB remained in service with several navies well into the 21st century. Its legacy includes not only its combat effectiveness but also its adaptability, having been fitted to patrol boats, corvettes, and even some armored vehicles in ground-based roles.