Oerlikon GDF

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	Weapon: Oerlikon GDF Type: Autocannon Country of Origin: Switzerland Year Adopted: 1963 Caliber: 35x228mm Action: Gas Operated Fully Automatic Overall Length (mm): 7800.0 Overall Length (in): 307.09 Weight (kg): 6700.00 Weight (pounds): 14770.97 Effective Range (km): 6 Effective Range (miles): 3.73

The Oerlikon GDF is a twin-barreled 35 mm towed anti-aircraft gun developed in Switzerland by Oerlikon Contraves (later Rheinmetall Air Defence) in the late 1950s. Designed for engaging fast, low-flying aircraft, the GDF utilizes two gas-operated autocannons mounted side-by-side on a single carriage, offering a high rate of fire and excellent tracking capabilities. It is usually integrated with the Skyguard or Super Fledermaus fire-control systems, which provide radar targeting, optical tracking, and computerized fire solutions. The system can be deployed quickly and features a high level of mechanical reliability, which contributed to its widespread export success.

Production of the GDF began in 1962, with continuous upgrades over the decades leading to multiple variants such as the GDF-002, GDF-005, and GDF-009. By the late 20th century, more than 30 countries had purchased the system, with production figures exceeding 4,000 units. The system's adaptability allowed it to be integrated with various radar and control units depending on the customer's needs, and its components were manufactured in several licensed production facilities worldwide, ensuring rapid supply and maintenance support for users.

In service, the Oerlikon GDF has seen operational use in numerous conflicts, often proving highly effective against helicopters, attack aircraft, and even unmanned aerial vehicles. It gained notoriety during the Iran-Iraq War, the Falklands War (in Argentine service), and various Middle Eastern conflicts, where it demonstrated both deterrence value and combat performance. Even in the era of advanced missile-based air defense, the GDF remains relevant due to its rapid reaction time, high rate of fire, and cost-effectiveness, with many systems still in active service after decades of upgrades.