Interesting stuff, especially the Russian ideas.
Engines got me thinking, if the concept is moving from strafing to sniping, e.g: First round on target. Then why not use something like the 35mm AHEAD system with a lower rate of fire but a shotgun spread, enhanced lethality and no wayward rounds left to damage/injure no hostiles?
NBS MANTIS Air Defence Protection System - Army Technology
http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct...t6BYojQEV_VIOA
If it's a good idea I claim a GEMS, if not forget I mentioned it
With all the stress, weight and maintainance issues involved I wonder how long it will be before lasers end up replacing the cannon. ISTR the US are keen to develop one for the AC-130 as it will have many advantages (apart from sounding cool)
