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Introduction
The Eagle Anti Air was a twin 35 mm mobile air defense system developed by US company Ares Inc. in the 1970s under a contract with the Imperial Iranian Army. The goal for Iran was to protect strategic assets such as oil fields, bridges, and refineries, from aerial threats, with plans for local production in Iran and potential export. The turreted system was mounted on a modified M548 tracked carrier and featured a modular turret design adaptable to different vehicles. Development began in the mid-1970s and included a new 35 mm Talon automatic cannon, designed by Eugene Stoner, at the time president of Ares Inc., renowned for his work in small-arms design.
The system was extensively tested, with a 28,000 rounds fired during trials. The centrepiece of the Eagle was the Ares Inc. Talon 35mm Autocannon. The Talon utilized a unique dual-feed system with two drum magazines, each capable of holding 280 rounds. The 35mm Autocannons had a high muzzle velocity of 1,175 m/sec, a rate of fire of 600 rounds per minute per barrel, and an effective anti-aircraft range of 4,000 meters. The cannons utilised pre-existing 35mm Oerlikon ammunition, and had a selection of APDS, SAPHEI, HE, and practice rounds.
Mounted on a modified M548 tracked carrier, the system could either be remotely operated from a distance of up to 100 metres, or the gunnery equipment could be included on board and fired from within the vehicle. The vehicle was stabilised by 3 deployable hydraulic legs, although these were not necessary for firing, just preferable. The turret was capable of firing instantly when mounted on a tracked chassis. The turret could receive guidance from external radar units but did not house one itself.
The project was ultimately halted due to the fall of the Shah of Iran, which led to the cancellation of the contract, and no further export customers could be found. However, the Talon cannon’s design did not end here, with Mauser obtaining a license for further development under contract, potentially to replace the Oerlikon 35 mm cannon used on the Gepard.
Specifications
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