Partner 2023: Zastava debuts new 30 mm autocannon

The M12 (top) is a 30×173 mm calibre autocannon that is already being fitted to Serbian armoured fighting vehicles. (Janes)

Serbia's Zastava has developed a new 30 mm autocannon that can fire NATO-standard munitions.

The company debuted its M12 autocannon at the Partner 2023 defence exhibition in Belgrade, and is already delivering the system for upgrades to in-service Serbian military armoured fighting vehicles, including the BVP M-80AB2.

The gas-operated autocannon has a dual-feed capability. This enables the operator to fire two types of ammunition natures without having to reload. The M12 is being offered with locally produced ammunition, currently limited to armour-piercing and high-explosive rounds.

A Zastava representative told Janes that the company hopes the M12 will offer an indigenous production capability for the autocannon for use on armoured fighting vehicles. With the M12 already selected for upgrading the BVP M-80s, there may be other upgrade opportunities for Serbian military vehicles.

The gun is reported to have a length of 3.2 m, and it is likely that used casings are ejected forwards after firing, given the dual-feed capability.