U.S. M163 Vulcan Air Defense System (VADS

The M163 Vulcan Air Defense System mounted a six-barrel 20mm cannon on an American tracked chassis derived from the M113 family. Intended for short-range air defense, it gave mobile formations rapid-firing protection against low-level threats. The system also saw use in ground-support situations. Its radar and engagement arrangements differed from more sophisticated guided-missile systems, illustrating the practical limitations of a gun-based solution as aircraft speed, attack methods, and stand-off weapons evolved.

A tracked air-defense vehicle could accompany formations that ordinary static batteries could not follow easily. Its useful presence still depended on identifying targets and obtaining a brief firing opportunity against fast low-level aircraft.

Finish and color

Supplied unpainted and printed in the selected color. Choose from the available product color options.

Tabletop use

Suitable for period-appropriate custom scenarios in Global War 2025, and compatible Axis & Allies games. Use suitable scenario or house rules for unit statistics and any technology upgrades. This piece does not supply additional game rules.

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