China's new X-shaped rail gun design doubles firepower, improves range

Chinese military researchers have developed a novel "double-decker" X-shaped rail gun design aimed at overcoming the firepower and range limitations of existing naval rail guns. This innovative configuration stacks two rail guns vertically within a single barrel, each with its own independent power circuit, allowing them to operate simultaneously without interference. The design uses four rails and two U-shaped armatures working in tandem, enabling the weapon to potentially fire heavier 132-pound (60 kg) projectiles at speeds of Mach 7, significantly increasing firepower compared to the current Chinese naval rail gun, which is limited to 33-pound (15 kg) shells. The proposed system promises a substantial range extension, with projected firing distances of up to 248 miles (400 km) and impact speeds exceeding Mach 4, potentially allowing shells to reach targets within six minutes. While the design addresses key issues such as rail damage caused by excessive current and magnetic forces in traditional rail guns, researchers acknowledge that challenges remain, particularly regarding electrical interference known as