A rail gun, also known as an electromagnetic mass accelerator, works by pushing a projectile along conductive guides using electromagnetic forces. Unlike Gauss guns, where the bullet does not physically contact the gun’s barrel, railguns are prone to rapid wear of conductive components. But rolling stock has a critical advantage in the field of electronic weapons; their efficiency can exceed 35%.

The Japanese are preparing a wagon for the operation

Japan launched a program for the development of rail guns in 2016, but significant funds were allocated only in 2022, accelerating the implementation of the project. Although only ¥1 billion (about US$6 million) was allocated to the project from 2016 to 2022, a significant increase in funding has seen developers receive ¥6.5 billion in 2022 and request ¥23.8 billion for 2024. ATLA, the institution responsible for the supervision of the project, aims to turn the project into a practical reality as soon as possible.

Sea trials of the ship’s rail gun have recently been conducted to evaluate the effects of mounting on the ship and the gun and associated equipment. These tests successfully achieved their goals, and to share their success with the world, the agency released the video of the firing on its social media platform.

Railsotron prototype is too heavy, according to ATLA representatives 8 tonsand barrel length reaches 6 meters. This cutting-edge weapon is designed to intercept high-speed aerial targets, primarily hypersonic missiles. Japan is also exploring the possibility of developing laser and microwave weapons, once again demonstrating the country’s determination to improve its defense capabilities.

Japan’s determination and recent success in testing a ship’s railgun represents a significant step forward in military technology. The potential deployment of such high-speed hypersonic interceptors adds a new dimension to the country’s defense capabilities and signals Japan’s determination to remain at the forefront of global defense innovation.