GAU-21 M3M/M3P – BAD-21

BAD-21 Blast Attenuation Device

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Overpressure Mitigation for GAU-21, M3M, and M3P .50 Caliber Systems

The RD BAD-21 is a precision-engineered blast attenuation device developed for integration with .50 caliber heavy machine guns, including the GAU-21, M3M, and M3P platforms. Purpose-built for aircraft, maritime, and vehicle-mounted weapon systems, the BAD-21 is designed to reduce harmful blast overpressure, sound pressure exposure, and muzzle signature—while preserving the full operational integrity of the host weapon.

While loosely informed by RD’s earlier General Purpose Suppressor (GPS) Technology, the BAD-21 represents a standalone solution focused exclusively on blast overpressure attenuation—not suppression. It provides a direct answer to the growing demand for improved crew survivability and reduced signature during sustained high-rate fire from rotary-wing, naval, and vehicle-mounted weapon stations.

By directing high-pressure muzzle gases forward and away from the operator, the BAD-21 significantly reduces the blast overpressure footprint experienced by aircrew, gunners, and sensitive onboard systems. This is especially critical in enclosed and semi-enclosed platforms, such as helicopter door mounts, RWS turrets, and shipboard weapon positions.

The BAD-21 is fully rated for sustained full-auto fire up to a continuous 600 rounds and is engineered to avoid introducing back pressure or flow restrictions that could alter the recoil operation or reliability of the host weapon systems. Its monolithic, salt-air–resistant construction ensures long-term survivability in harsh maritime, desert, and high-altitude environments.

The BAD-21 also contributes to flash mitigation and ground/deck disturbance reduction, sending blast energy directly downrange and helping maintain platform concealment and operator visual awareness.

The RD BAD-21: Focused blast control for modern heavy weapon platforms—protect the crew, preserve the fight.

SKU: BAD-21

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