Ho-3 was a Japanese autocannon used during World War II. It was a drum-fed improvement of the magazine-fed Ho-1 cannon, itself derived from the Type 97 antitank rifle. It was used by the Kawasaki Ki-45KAIc heavy fighter of the Imperial Japanese Army Air Force.[1]

Ho-3 cannon
Two dismounted Ho-3 cannons without the drum magazines. Note the ammunition belt.
TypeAircraft autocannon
Place of originEmpire of Japan
Service history
Used byImperial Japanese Army Air Service
Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service
WarsWorld War II
Specifications
Mass45 kg (99 lb)
Length1,749 mm (68.9 in)
Barrel length1,194 mm (47.0 in)

Cartridge20x125mm (127)
Calibre20 mm (0.79 in)
ActionShort recoil-operated
Rate of fire300-400 rounds/min
Muzzle velocity820 m/s (2,700 ft/s)
Feed system50-round drum magazine

Specifications

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  • Caliber: 20 mm (0.8 in)
  • Ammunition: 20 x 125 (164 g)
  • Weight: 43 kg (95 lb)
  • Rate of fire: 300-400 rounds/min
  • Muzzle velocity: 820 m/s (2,690 ft/s)

Citations

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  1. ^ Gustin & Williams, p. 183

Bibliography

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  • Gustin, Emmanuel; Williams, Anthony G. (2003). Flying Guns: The Development of Aircraft Guns, Ammunition and Installations 1933–1945. Marlborough, UK: Airlife. ISBN 978-1-84037-227-4.