Abstract: A sliding breechblock for a cannon includes a translatable, removable insert assembly that contains electrical firing pin and data link modules. The removable insert assembly is translatable in a direction normal to the central longitudinal axis of the barrel thereby enabling removal of the insert assembly without removing the breechblock from the breech ring. Mating portions formed on the breechblock and on the insert assembly prevent displacement of the insert assembly with respect to the breechblock in the direction along the central longitudinal axis of the barrel.

Abstract: A drive system with a central longitudinal axis includes a brushless DC servomotor with a stator and a rotor disposed radially interior of the stator. The rotor defines a coaxial central void space. A planetary gear assembly connected to an input shaft and an output shaft is coaxially disposed in the central void space. A flange fixed to the rotor transfers torque to the input shaft. The ratio of the overall length of the drive system to its outer diameter is about one or less, thereby creating a power density along the central longitudinal axis that is greater than known electric motor/gear box drive systems.