The Link Fed 30 mm M230LF is a derivative of the original 30 mm M230 automatic cannon, covered in detail in a separate entry, which is fitted to The Boeing Company AH-64 series of Apache attack helicopter.

The objective of this modification of the proven M230 was to make it more suitable for installation on light vehicles and small boats. It is being offered with two barrel lengths, 1.066 m (42 in) and 1.524 m (60 in)

Four major changes have been made to the system to complete the transition from the M230 to the M230LF:

(1) the feed system has been changed from linkless to a link feed that uses the standard US ADEN or DEFA links which most ammunition is packaged with. It will accept these links with either the hook or loop leading.

(2) the electric motor and control system has been changed from 120 V 40 cycle AC to 24 V DC so that it was compatible with standard vehicle electrical systems.

(3) an anti-hangfire system was incorporated like the system which is used on the Bushmaster 25 mm M242 Chain GunŽ. This system has proven to be totally effective in all Bushmaster applications.

(4) the recoil and cannon mounting systems were revised to provide for easier vehicle turret integration.

The M230 Link Fed has been integrated into several turret systems and is currently under evaluation by several countries. The key to effectiveness of this system is the broad lethality of the M789 High Explosive Dual Purpose (HEDP) round of ammunition which is claimed to be true multipurpose and gives excellent anti-material, anti-personnel and anti-light armour performance, all from a single round.

It will also fire the US M799 (HEI) and M788 (TP) rounds as well as all ADEN/DEFA natures of ammunition.

For trials purposes the M230LF has already been fitted into an AV Technologies two-person turret installed on a M113 series armoured personnel carrier. As of mid-1999 there were no known production applications for the 30 mm M230LF weapon.

Development complete. Ready for production.