The Mk47 or Striker 40 is a 40mm automatic grenade launcher with an integrated fire control system, capable of launching smart programmable 40mm shells in addition to various unguided rounds. Integrating the latest sensing, targeting and computer programming technology, the MK47 is a reliable, portable 40mm grenade launcher suited for light infantry vehicles and tripod applications. The MK47 weapon system provides the warfighter with a decisive technological advantage over enemy forces equipped with older crew-served weapons. The MK47 fires all NATO standard high velocity 40mm rounds, providing devastating firepower against soft and lightly armored targets.
The Mk 47 has the latest sensing, targeting and ballistics technology. When used with General Dynamics’ sophisticated Lightweight Video Sight II (LVS II) the MK47 provides devastating firepower against soft and lightly armored targets. The LVS II is an integrated module that gives the operator the ability to detect, recognize, identify and engage targets in both day and night conditions through day color video and night thermal imaging cameras. The Lightweight Video Sight produced by Raytheon, the Mk 47’s sophisticated fire control system utilizes the latest in laser rangefinding, I2 night vision and ballistic computer technology. In addition to being able to fire all NATO standard high velocity 40mm rounds like the Mk 19 grenade launcher, it can fire MK285 smart grenades that can be programmed to air burst after a set distance. A computerized sight allows the user to set this distance.
General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, previously General Dynamics Armament Systems (which had subsumed the weapon’s original developer, Saco Defense), was the system integrator for the Striker 40 ALGL System, the first major advancement in crew-served weapon systems since the end of World War II. The Mk47 40 mm Advanced Lightweight Grenade Launcher (ALGL) has been developed as a private venture by an international consortium consisting of Saco Defense of the United States (weapon), Computing Devices Canada (electronic sighting system), Bofors Carl Gustaf (high-performance programmable fuze) and NAMMO AS. The US military and the Israel Defence Forces have fielded limited numbers of MK 47 Mod 0 systems, with approximately 1,500 in US service.
