Chapter 6 Remote Controlled Weapon Station

Learning objectives
(1) Understand the main performance parameters of the remote controlled weapon station
(RCWS)
(2) Master the main components of the RCWS;
(3) Understand the working principles of the RCWS;
(4) Be able to use and operate the RCWS;
(5) Be able to maintain and service the RCWS;
(6) Be able to troubleshoot the RCWS.

6-1
6.1 General description
The RCWS is a highly integrated mechatronic weapon system based on video images and
electric drive to achieve remote operation, which is installed on the top of the turret to
annihilate the moving targets of enemy cluster within 1,600m and suppress the light
weapons of the enemy’s firing points, and to penetrate the armor protection of the enemy's
light armored targets within 1,000m and to fire at the low-altitude flying targets such as
enemy’s armed helicopters. The RCWS is capable of observe and aiming, tracking
dynamically, ranging, and firing at the targets outside the vehicle.
See Fig. 6-1 for the RCWS.
Display and control terminal 12.7mm RCWS

Console

Switch box Conversion

box

Fig. 6-1 RCWS

6.2 Main performance parameters

6.2.1 Main performance parameters of the RCWS
See Table 6.1 for main performance parameters of the RCWS.
Table 6.1 Main performance parameters of the RCWS

Azimuth n×360°;
Range of firing angle:
Elevation -4.5° ~ +70°

Speed-governing range High speed ≥30°/s;

(bidirectional): Low speed ≤0.05°/s
Not less than1500 m (The illuminance of the target surface is not less
Viewing
than 100Lux, the atmospheric visibility is not less than 10 km,
distance
White light camera minimum field of view (FOV), identify the sides of the tank)
The narrow field of view (NFOV) is 4°×3° (±5%), the wide field of view
FOV
(WFOV) is 18°×13.5° (±10%)
2×electronic magnification line of sight: to the targets on the sides of
the tank (2.7 m x 5.3 m), with the background temperature difference
Viewing
of 3K~6 K, the ambient temperature of 25°C± 5°C, the humidity of
distance
≤70%, the good weather (visibility greater than15 km), and the
Infrared camera recognition range of ≥1.5 km
No electronic magnification: 8.3°×6.2°±5％;
FOV
2×electron magnification: 4.15°×3.1°±5％

6-2
 50m~2500 m, (target personnel 1.7 m × 1. 5 m, vehicles 2.3 m × 4.6
Ranging:
m, Visibility >8 km) );
Laser ranging
Ranging
±5m;
accuracy
Capacity 60 rds/box
Weight: ≤150kg
Operating temperature -40°C ~ +65°C
Storage temperature -55°C ~ +70°C

See Table 6.2 for performance parameters of the 12.7 mm machine gun.
Table 6.2 Performance parameters of the 12.7 mm machine gun

Caliber 12.7mm
Muzzle velocity Armor-piercing incendiary (API) 800 m/s
Tungsten armor-piercing projectile 1150m/s
Radio frequency 650 rounds/min~750 rounds/min
Firing rate in combat 80 rounds/min~100 rounds/min
To air: 1600m
Effective firing range To ground: 1500m
To light armor: 800m
Maximum firing range (Armor-piercing
7000m
Incendiary)
Weight of machine gun: 18kg
Barrel length 1804mm
Lifespan of the gun ≥ 7000 rounds;
Feeding mode: Single shot, breakable link-belt
Percussion method Electric percussion
Ambient temperature -45°C ~ +50°C
Requirements for reliability Failure rate: ≤0.3%.

6.3 Main components

The RCWS is composed of an inner control system and an outer turret. The inner control
system includes a commander console, commander’s display and control device, switch
boxes, conversion boxes, which are mainly used for observing and aiming, control and
communication of the RCWS. The outer turret mainly includes a 12.7mm anti-aircraft
machine gun, a driving mechanism, a locking mechanism, a driving control box and an
integrated control box. It is mainly used to drive the weapon and fire.
See Fig. 6-2 for the main components of the RCWS

6-3
 Hoisting screw

Cradle

Travelling lock

CCD sight

Traversing
mechanism

Race Locking
electromagnet

Sensor

Elevating
mechanism
Integrated
control box

Driving Rotary
box joint
Fig. 6-2 Main components of the RCWS
(1) Hoisting screw
It is used for hoisting the RCWS. See Fig. 6-3 for the hoisting screw.
(2) Travelling lock
It is used to lock/unlock the elevation/azimuth travelling locks. See Fig. 6-4 for the
travelling lock.
(3) Traversing mechanism
The azimuth driving mechanism is mainly composed of a motor, a planetary reducer, an
output gear, and an outer ring gear. It is installed behind the baseplate of the bracket to
drive the weapon to rotate in azimuth. See Fig. 6-5 for the traversing mechanism.

6-4
(4) Race
The race, as the supporting body to bear the weight of the entire system, is composed of
an inner ring, an outer ring and balls. The double-row balls and the upper-lower structure
of the inner ring are used to control the gap of the race and improve the accuracy. See Fig.
6-6 for the race.

Fig. 6-3 Hoisting screw Fig. 6-4 Travelling lock Fig. 6-5 Traversing Fig. 6-6 Race
mechanism

(5) Electromagnetic brake

The electromagnetic brake is used to lock the elevation/azimuth driving mechanism when
firing, thus increasing the anti-disturbance ability of the RCWS and improving the firing
accuracy.
See Fig. 6-7 for the electromagnetic brake.

Fig. 6-7 Electromagnetic brake

(6) CCD sight
With the visible light imaging technology, the observing and sighting device is used to
collect the video information on the targets (e.g., tanks and persons) in the battlefield
environment through the CCD white-light camera and the infrared camera. The video in
the PAL pattern is output to the integrated control box. The laser ranging module is used to
measure the distance of the target.
See Fig. 6-8 for CCD sight.

Fig. 6-8 CCD sight

(7) Cradle
The cradle is a supporting body for the components of the machine gun assembly, which is
provided with the interface for installing each component. The machine gun is installed on
the slide rail on the cradle. When the machine gun is firing, the upper part of the cradle
slides relative to the lower part of the cradle (up to 8mm) to compress the buffer spring to
absorb some of the recoiling energy. After firing, the buffer spring is released to reset the
machine gun.
See Fig. 6-9 for cradle.

6-5
 Fig. 6-9 Cradle
(8) Elevating mechanism
The elevation driving mechanism is mainly composed of a motor, a reducer, an output gear
and a toothed arc of the cradle, and used to drive the weapon to pitch.
See Fig. 6-10 for the elevating mechanism.

Fig. 6-10 Elevating mechanism

(9) Driving box
The driving box is mainly composed of a box body, a compartment and a drive module.
The drive module receives the control commands and data from the integrated control box,
driving the motor at a high response speed, and collects the position and speed
information feedback of the motor in real time, so as to realize drive control over the motor.
See Fig. 6-11 for the drive box.

Fig. 6-11 Drive box

(10) Rotary joint
The rotary joint is mainly composed of an upper rotary part, a lower rotary part, an azimuth
sensor and a rubber gasket. The upper rotary part is connected with the top part of the
RCWS, and the lower rotary part is connected with the internal control part, so as to
connect the circuit between the internal part and the top part. The azimuth sensor can
determine accurately the azimuth angle of the RCWS relative to the turret, so as to achieve
evasion of the RCWS when firing.
See Fig. 6-12 for the rotary joint

Fig. 6-12 Rotary joint

(11) Angle sensor
The angle sensor is used to feed back the angle information in real time. The angle
information is transmitted to the integrated control box through the RS422 serial
communication. Based on the angle information, the control system completes the
functions such as machine-gun elevation limit, azimuth direction, zeroing, automatic speed
6-6
 measuring and firing evasion.
See Fig. 6-13 for the angle sensor.

Fig. 6-13 Angle sensor

6.4 Working principle

The crew in the vehicle uses the display and control device and the console to set and
adjust the parameters, select the operating condition, observe the environment outside the
vehicle, aim at a target, range and fire. The integrated control box, as the core of the
control system, is used to collect the control signal, video signal, bus information and
operating signal in a unified pattern and process them logically to achieve integrated
control. Adopt CAN data interaction between the integrated control box and the drive box
and the display controls. The RS422 bus is used to transmit the information (e.g., image
and angle) to the observing and sighting device and angle sensor.
See Fig. 6-14 for the working principle of the RCWS.

Fig. 6-14 Working principle of the RCWS

6-7
6.5 Use and Operation
6.5.1 Pre-use check
(1) Pre-use check of 12.7mm AAMG
1) Remove the protective hood of 12.7mm AAMG.
2) Use the cleaning rod to remove the grease from the gun barrel and ensure that the
machine gun bore is clean and free of foreign objects.
3) Check compression nut for fixing 12.7mm AAMG on the cradle for tightness.
See Fig. 6-15 for the pre-use check.

Fig. 6-15 Pre-use check 1

4) Check the action of firing mechanism of 12.7mm AAMG for normal condition.
Open the feed mechanism, set the safety shaft to “F” position, pull the bolt to rear and
engage it, check the feeding port, belt feed teeth and spring for good condition.
As shown in Fig. 6-16, pull the cocking handle (2) to the fastening position of the bolt
carrier with the left hand, and then return the cocking handle to its original position. Press
the trigger (3) to perform empty percussion once. Release the firing mechanism and move
the bolt carrier forward in place. No jamming is allowed.
Close the feed mechanism cover and pull the cocking handle to the rear position, and then
release the firing mechanism. Make sure the bolt carrier and its moving parts are free of
jamming. When reinstalling the feed mechanism cover, set the belt feed crank (1) in the
front position.

6-8
 4

1
3

1. Belt feed crank 2. Cocking handle 3. Trigger 4. Feed mechanism

Fig. 6-16 Pre-use check 2
After checking of 12.7mm AAMG is completed, set the safety shaft on the firing
mechanism to “S” position, put 12.7mm AAMG protective hood.
Determine the position of the gas regulator. As shown in Fig. 6-17, for starting using a new
machine gun, use the 2# gas port. After the machine gun has fired about 1000 rounds and
the firing frequency has significantly increased, use the 1# gas port.
Normally, use the 1# gas port for firing of precision training. For different types of cartridges
and under severe conditions (e.g., wind and sand, high and cold areas), if the recoil energy
of the automatic mechanism is insufficient and failure to recoil to the original position
occurs, use the 2# gas port.

1 3

1. Regulator 3. Gas block

2. Cartridge case 4. Marking line on the side of regulator
Fig. 6-17 Pre-use check 3
Under severe conditions: Use the 1# gas port in high temperature areas. Use the 2# gas
port in low temperature areas. Use the 3# gas port in windy, sandy and raining areas and
in plateau with low pressure.
Embed the bottom edge of cartridge case (2) in the circular groove at the lower of regulator
(1), turn it left and right, ensuring that the marking line on the side of regulator points to No.
1, 2 or 3 position.

6-9
(2) Check the installation of sight
Check the locking bolts and adjusting blots of sight for tightening, clean the sight lens of
remote-controlled weapon station.
See Fig. 6-18 for checking the sight.

1 2

3 4

1. Elevation locking screw 3. Azimuth adjusting screw

2. Elevation adjusting crew 4. Azimuth locking screw
Fig. 6-18 Checking the sight
(3) Check movement of RCWS and action of firing electromagnet
Check the inside and outside of turret to make sure that no obstacle affecting rotation and
firing of weapon station is present;
Pull the ring-pulls of the elevation/azimuth travelling locks and put the ring-pull into the
shallow groove in the locking body to release the elevation and azimuth travelling locks;
Activate the automatic operation mode of the weapon system.
Operate the console to move the RCWS in elevation and azimuth, and check whether the
RCWS is moved flexibly and free of jamming.
Press the firing button to check the firing electromagnet for presence of action.
After checking is completed, pull the ring-pulls of the elevation/azimuth travelling locks and
put the ring-pulls into the deep groove of the travelling locks to lock them, put the
protecting cover on the RCWS.
See Fig. 6-19 for checking movement of RCWS and action of firing electromagnet.

Fig. 6-19 Checking movement of RCWS and action of firing electromagnet

6.5.2 Description of the user interface

(1) Operation of switch box
The switch box is provided with the buttons for firing safety, switching system operating
condition, switching system status, switching field of view for display of video, switching
manual/automatic mode and selecting short firing/running fire method for the RCWS
control system.
See Fig. 6-20 for the switch box.

6-10
 Fig. 6-20 Switch box
See Table 6.3 for the key of the switch box
Table 6.3 Key of the switch box

S/N Name of button Operation

1 Safety Switch Before firing with weapon station, move Safety Switch to up position, safety fuse is
turned on, firing is permitted.

2 Mode Switch over operating conditions of the RCWS, press the key, at place A in typical
operation interface, AUTO indicates automatic mode, TRCK indicates tracking mode.

3 Calib Switch over system operation mode and calibration mode.

At place A in typical operation interface, CLBR indicates that system enters main
interface.

4 Englarge When needing careful observation towards the position aimed at, press the key, the
image at cross mark position will be magnified two time for accurate display.

5 Fov Press the key to switch wide FOV and narrow FOV of video display. At place A in
typical operation interface, OBSV indicates that screen displays wide FOV, press the
key again, narrow FOV is displayed.

6 S/L Press the key, at place D in typical operation interface, S indicates short burst, L
indicates long burst.

7 MAN/AUTO When range-finding mode is switched over, press the key, at place C of typical
operation interface, MNxxxx indicates manual range-finding, Lsxxxx indicates laser
range-finding.

8 Self-test If Exxxx is displayed at lower left corner of screen, press “Self-test”, open the system
self-test interface to see abnormal condition of system. Press “Self-test” key once
again, the system exists from self-test interface.

9 Spare1 Three spare keys, for reserve when system function needs to extend.
Spare2
10 VL/NV Used to switch the white light/thermal image FOV.
11 Layer Switch over “cross wave gate”, “azimuth indication” icon black and white color
circularly.

12 Air/Gnd In tracking mode, switch over target under tracking between air background and
ground background.
Press the key, at place B of typical operation interface (see Fig. 1), GND is ground
mode, AIR is air mode.

13 RZ Long press the key when MG is required to adjust the calibrated position.

14 Confirm When the selection prompt moves to the corresponding position, press the key to
enter the corresponding confirmed function.
15 Reset System parameter reset

6-11
 S/N Name of button Operation
16 UP
17 DOWN
18 LEFT Move system prompt up, down, left or right.

19 RIGHT
20 Back Exist from the current interface, return to the former interface.

(2) Operation of the commander's display and control terminal

Together with the fire control system, the commander's display and control terminal is used
for display of the video signal of the RCWS. See Fig. 6-21 for the commander’s display
and control terminal.
(3) Commander’s console
Together with the fire control system, it is used to operate the turning, ranging and firing
functions of the weapon system. The indicator lights are connected in parallel with the
switches for control and indicating. See Fig. 6-22 for the commander’s console.

1. Switching the video of the RCWS 2. Switch of the display

Fig. 6-21 Commander's display and control terminal
1

1. Machine gun firing 2. Ranging/Unlocking 3. Starting of the RCWS

Fig. 6-22 Commander’s console
(4) Description of the interface of the RCWS control system
1) Typical system human-machine interface (HMI).
See Fig. 6-23 for the typical system human-machine interface (HMI).

6-12
 Fig. 6-23 Typical system human-machine interface (HMI)
See Table 6.4 for the meanings of the typical system human-machine interface (HMI).
Table 6.4 Meanings of the typical system human-machine interface (HMI

S/N Meaning

Mode and task state indication, including:

OBSV: Observation mode in wide FOV;
AUTO: Auto range-setting mode;
A TRCK: Auto tracking mode;
CLBR: Main calibration menu interface;
AXIS: System zero alignment task;
GUNC: Corrections setting task.

Target type indication, including:

B GND: Ground target, typical targets, such as: vehicle and low altitude helicopter.
AIR: Air target, typical target such as: low altitude helicopter and small plane.

Range-finding indication, including:

Lsxxxx: laser mode and range value;
C
MNxxxx: Manual range setting (use UP and DOWN keys)

System continuous firing setting:

D BT: Short burst
RP: Long burst

FOV and image type and display intensification prompt:

E W: Visible light wide FOV;
N: Visible light narrow FOV;

F Weapon type: 12.7

G Laser range indication cross;

H Integrated correction, unit: mil;

I MG elevation angle value, unit; ‘degree”.

HI+aa: means the current system elevation at “+aa” degree.
J Means the system azimuth indication.

Start SV (Start unlocking): means system start switch is at off state (SA1), after the switch is turned
on, the prompt disappear;
K
Up Limit: means elevation reaches to up limit position;
Dn Limit: means elevation reaches to down limit position.

6-13
2) System calibration interface
See Fig. 6-24 for the system calibration interface
CLBR GND Ls0000 BT N 12.7
T+P para X
Gun Axis
Corrects
SaveParas NO >

Fig. 6-24 System calibration interface

See table 6.5 for the meanings of the words in the system calibration interface
Table 6.5 Meanings of the words in the system calibration interface

Character Meaning

X Press Up and Dn keys on switch box to move “X” to the corresponding option.

Gun Axis (zero-calibration - Calibrate the intersection position of firelines in FOV.

12.7 MG)

Corrects (Integrated Corrects Correct the firing deviation according to live round firing condition.
- 12.7 MG)

T+P para (weather Press Up and Dn key on switch box, move “X” to “para.save” option, press
“ Left” and “Right” key to switch over “YES” or “NO”, when “ YES” is displayed,
parameter)
press “confirm” key to save parameters.

Save Paras (parameter save) On bottom line, azimuth and elevation value is displayed, this value is the
original value sent from angle sensor (through direction normalization).

6.5.3 Starting of the RCWS

(1) Starting of the RCWS
1) Turn on the fire control system.
a. Open the commander’s display and control terminal
b. As shown in Fig. 6-25, move “AAMG In-vehicle Operation” switch on the commander’s
distribution box to “On” position;
c. Set the "SA2" switch on the commander's console to the ON position.
d. Press "MG.V" on the commander's display and control terminal to switch to the RCWS
video source.
At this moment, the weapon control system is turned on.

6-14
 The interior switches of the anti-aircraft machine gun

Fig. 6-25 The interior switches of the anti-aircraft machine gun

(2) Activate the RCWS into the AUTO mode
1) Turn on the RCWS.
2) Press "Mode" on the switch box and select "AUTO" on the commander’s display and
control terminal.
3) At this time, the automatic mode of weapon control system is turned on.
Activate the RCWS into the AUTO mode, as shown in Fig. 6-26.

Fig. 6-26 Activating the RCWS into the AUTO mode

(3) Activate the RCWS into the TRCK mode.
1) Start the system into AUTO mode.
2) Press "Mode" on the switch box and select "TRCK";
3) At this time, the weapon control system is switched to tracking mode.
6.5.4 Integrated correction of the RCWS
(1) Integrated correction operation of the RCWS
1) Firstly, as shown in Fig. 6-27, press “Calib” key on switch box to enter main calibration
menu interface, then, press “Up and Dn” key to select “Integrated Corrects”, press
“confirm” key, the system automatically enters weapon integrated correction interface.
2) In the weapon integrated corrections interface, the system will automatically flash the
characters to be modified. Press "Left and Right" to select the number and sign to be
adjusted, and press "Up and Down" to adjust the number or sign.
3) After the adjustment is completed, press “Confirm” to update the parameters and exit to
return to the previous main menu interface for calibration.

CAUTION
If pressing “back” key, parameter will not be refreshed, directly exit from the
current interface

6-15
 Fig. 6-27 Interface of the RCWS control system

6.5.5 Operation process of firing

(1) Removing the gun cover
Remove gun cover of the RCWS and place it in the side grill of turret.
(2) Unlocking the travelling lock
Pull the ring-pull of travelling lock and put the ring-pull into the shallow groove in the
locking body to release the elevation and azimuth travelling locks;
See Fig. 6-28 for unlocking the travelling lock.

Fig. 6-28 Unlocking the travelling lock

(3) Loading of ammunition
See Fig. 6-29 for the loading of ammunition.

Fig. 6-29 Loading of ammunition

(4) Closing of turret hatches
Before moving and firing of weapon station, commander’s and gunner’s hatches must be
closed.

6-16
(5) Firing in automatic mode
1) Start the system into AUTO mode.
2) Operate the console to rotate the weapon station and observe “reticle” on the display
screen until it aligns with the target;
3) Press “range-finding” button on the console to find distance;
4) Aim range-setting “reticle” at the target accurately for second time, press “S/L” button on
switch box to select short burst setting, then press “firing” button on the console to fire.
See Fig. 6-30 for the firing in automatic mode.

Fig. 6-30 Firing in automatic mode

(6) Firing in tracking mode
1) Start the system into TRACK mode.
2) Operate the console to rotate the weapon station, observe “reticle” on the display screen
until it aligns with the target;
3) Press “range-finding” button on console;
4) If target tracking wave gate coincides with small reticle center, operator can fire;
5) Press the “firing” button on the console to fire;
6) To exit from auto tracking state, long press “range-firing” key for more than 2s to unlock.
6.5.6 Calibration of RCWS
(1) Calibration of 12.7mm MG and integrated sight:
See Fig. 6-31 for the RCWS 100 m calibration targets.
1) Park the tank with the calibrated AAMG on level ground, and set the calibration target (the
coordinates of the calibration target) at a distance of 100m away from the muzzle.
2) Activate the automatic mode of the RCWS. Press the "Calib" button of the switch box to
enter the main menu interface for calibration.
3) Press “ ” and “ ” to select “CLBR”, press “Confirm” key to enter zero-calibration
interface, the system will automatically prompt blinking distance prompt frame to prompt
driver to set calibration distance.
See Fig. 6-32 for the zero calibration interface.

6-17
 1

2
3

1. Aiming center of Co-axial MG boresight 2. Thermal imaging aiming center 3. Aiming center of CCD
Fig. 6-31 RCWS 100 m calibration targets
Initial flashing prompt

Fig. 6-32 Zero calibration interface

4) Insert the boresight into muzzle, observe through the eyepiece of boresight and drive the
MG to bring the aiming center of boresight to the corresponding cross mark on the
calibration target, and keep MG not moving.
See Fig. 6-33 for the calibration of the integrated sight

Fig. 6-33 Calibration of the integrated sight

5) Loosen the lock bolts (1) and (4) on CCD sight to adjust adjusting bolt (2) and (3) to align
the aiming center of the sight with the corresponding cross mark on the calibration target
generally, after calibration, lock the adjusting bolt and locking bolts.
See Fig. 6-34 for the adjustment of the integrated sight.

6-18
6) Press the laser ranging button on the commander’s console, and press the switch box
“ ”, “ ” if it is manual ranging to set the range and press “Confirm”, the system
stops flashing the distance indication and records the current zero calibration distance;
NOTE:
Once “Confirm” key is pressed, “Back” key cannot be pressed for exit from
the task.
7) Press the switch box “ , , , ” keys to accurately align the reticle to the reticle on
the calibration target;
8) In calibration menu interface, press “ ”, “ ” and to select“ SaveParas” option, press
“ ” key, the system will display blinking “YES”, press “Confirm” key to save parameters,
at the end, the system will display “Save Normal/abnormal”.
See Fig. 6-35 for the interface display.

1
2

3 4

1. Elevation locking screw 3. Azimuth adjusting screw

2. Elevation adjusting crew 4. Azimuth locking screw
Fig. 6-34 Adjustment of the integrated sight

Fig. 6-35 Interface display

6.6 Maintenance and service

6.6.1 Maintenance of the 12.7mm AAMG body
1) Remove 12.7mm AAMG type QJC88 from the cradle of weapon station, loosen the fixing
bolt of firing electromagnet, and remove it from the MG barrel, wipe off powder residual on
the barrel surface with cloth dipped in gasoline.
2) Remove the feed mechanism: unlock buckle scale seat (1), open feed mechanism (2) by
about 45°, protuberance of supporting lug shaft (3) should align with the slot in the hole of
feed mechanism cover, pull the supporting lug shaft (3) from left side, then remove the

6-19
 feed mechanism.
See Fig. 6-36 for the removal of the feed mechanism.

3 2 1

1. Scale seat 2. Feed mechanism 3. Trunnion

Fig. 6-36 Removal of the feed mechanism
3) Remove the barrel component: press the fixing latch handle (1), then pull the fixing latch (2)
to position, and take out the barrel component (3) by force along the barrel axis. See Fig.
6-37 for the removal of the barrel.
4) Remove piston sleeve: hold piston sleeve (1), and pull it by force to separate the lug (2)
with receiver positioning slot and positioning clamp. Meanwhile, rotate it counterclockwise
by around 180°, and push it backwards. See Fig. 6-38 for the removal of the piston
cylinder.

2
1

1. Latch wrench 2. Latch 3. Gun barrel

Fig. 6-37 Barrel removal

1 2

1. Piston cylinder 2. Lug

Fig. 6-38 Removal of the piston cylinder
5) Remove the breech: press the breech buckle (1) to position, and use force to make the
breech (3) move upwards, (when matching tightly, use end of hammer wood bar to knock
the receiver rear (2) until the breech is removed.
See Fig. 6-39 for the removal of the gun breech.

6-20
 2 1
3

1. Breech latch 2. Receiver tail 3. Gun breech

Fig. 6-39 Removal of the gun breech
6) Removal of firing mechanism and bolt subassembly: hold trigger mechanism (1) and pull it
backward to take it out, then push the bolt carrier (2). Backward, and take the carrier out,
then remove the bolt (3) subassembly from the bolt carrier.
See Fig. 6-40 for the removal of the bolt

1
2 3

1. Trigger mechanism 2. Bolt carrier 3. Bolt

Fig. 6-40 Removal of the bolt
7) Disassembly of bolt subassembly: after firing, powder residual will remain on the bolt (1), to
facilitate checking, wiping and oiling, bolt subassembly should be disassembled. Take out
left locking plate (2), right locking plate (3), then remove extractor (4) and extractor spring
(5), at the end, remove pin (8) with punch, and take out firing pin (6) and ejector (7).
See Fig. 6-41 for the disassembly of the bolt

7 8

3
6

1
2
5
4

1. Bolt 5. Extractor spring

2. Left locking plate 6. Firing pin
3. Right locking plate 7. Ejector
4. Extractor 8. Pin
Fig. 6-41 Disassembly of the bolt
8) Disassembly of bolt carrier: Use punch to punch out the carrier pin (2), turn the coupling (1)
by 90°and take it out. Using the punch, remove the coupling pin. Press the piston rod.
Press the screwdriver-wrench (3) in the slot of the piston rod. Insert the wrench (4) for
muzzle brake and coupling in the coupling, rotate the wrench counterclockwise to remove
6-21
 the coupling. Then, manually press the piston, remove the screwdriver-wrench. Finally, the
recoil spring is slowly extended to decompose.
See Fig. 6-42 for the disassembly of the bolt carrier.
5

4 3
2

1. Coupling 4. Coupling wrench

2. Bolt carrier pin 5. Piston rod
3. Screwdriver wrench
Fig. 6-42 Disassembly of the bolt carrier
9) Use the gas-block-chamber remover (2) and the piston chamber remover (3) to clean the
gunpowder residues in the gas chamber (1) and the piston chamber (4), and remove the
gunpowder residues from the gun chamber and other parts, and then apply the gun grease
to avoid rusting.
See Fig. 6-43 for the maintenance of the AAMG

3 4
1 2

1. Gas chamber 3. Piston chamber remover

2. Gas-block-chamber remover 4. Piston chamber
Fig. 6-43 Maintenance of the AAMG
10) Wash parts and components with gasoline.
11) Wipe them dry, and apply MG oil (apply common machine gun oil at above 0°C, apply
winter MG oil at below 0°C).
12) Assemble the MG in sequence opposite to disassembling.
6.6.2 Maintenance and clearance adjustment of the azimuth driving
mechanism
1) Check the tooth surface of output gear of traversing mechanism for wear; adjust the
meshing contact spots between the traversing mechanism output gear and race ring gear
by reducing the number of adjusting shims: not less than 40% as per the height, not less
than 50% as per length. If output gear of traversing mechanism is seriously worn, the
output gear should be replaced in time.
See Fig. 6-44 for the maintenance of the azimuth driving device

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2) Adjust the meshing contact spots between the electromagnetic brake gear and race ring
gear by increasing and reducing the number of adjusting shims: not less than 40% as per
the height, not less than 50% as per length. If the electromagnetic brake output gear is
seriously worn, the electromagnetic brake should be replaced in time.
See Fig. 6-45 for the removal of the electromagnetic brake

1
2

1. Output gear of traversing mechanism 2. Race 3. Adjusting shim

Fig. 6-44 Maintenance of the azimuth driving device

1 2 3 4

1. Electromagnetic brake mount 3. Electromagnetic brake

2. Fixing screw 4. Adjusting shim
Fig. 6-45 Removal of the electromagnetic brake

6.6.3 Clearance adjustment of elevation driving mechanism

Remove the fixing bolts from left trunnion and right trunnion, and turn the left trunnion and
right trunnion until marking lines on the left trunnion and right trunnion face the same
direction, when the marking line is downward vertically, the meshing clearance of elevation
driving mechanism is smallest. Properly adjust the meshing clearance of elevation driving
mechanism, measure the contact spots between toothed arc plate of cradle and
electromagnetic brake gear: not less than 40% as per height, not less than 50% as per
length.
See Fig. 6-46 for the clearance adjustment of elevation driving mechanism

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 2
1

1. Left trunnion 2. Right trunnion

Fig. 6-46 Clearance adjustment of the elevation driving mechanism

6.7 Maintenance
6.7.1 Removal and installation of main components
(1) Removal and installation of the protective hood
1) Removal
a. Unbuckle the hasp connecting the upper and lower protective hoods of 12.7mm AAMG
and remove protective hood (1) from the MG.
b. Remove the fixing screws (6) with Allen key 5 from the lower protective hood (2) of MG,
rear protective hood (4), left protective hood (5) and right protective hood (3) of the RCWS.
c. Remove all protective hoods of RCWS;
1

5
3
4

1. Upper protective hood of AAMG 4. Rear protective hood

2. Lower protective hood of AAMG 5. Left protective hood
3. Right protective hood 6. Protective hood screw
Fig. 6-47 Removal of the protective hood
2) Installation
Install the protective hoods in the sequence opposite to removal, and coat Loctite 222
thread locking glue on the fixing screws.
See Fig. 6-47 for the removal of the protective hood.
(2) Removal and installation of the AAMG barrel
1) Removal
a. Remove the protective hood of MG;
b. Remove the plug of cable connecting to the electric firing mechanism (1);
c. Loosen the compression nut (2) on the MG mount, and open the pressure cover (3);

6-24
d. Lift the MG barrel (4) up, the barrel will slide backward and unlocked from the rear support
point, then remove the barrel from the MG mount.
See Fig. 6-48 for removal of the AAMG

4 3

2
1

1. Electric firing mechanism 3. Gland

2. Compression nut 4. Gun barrel

Fig. 6-48 Removal of the AAMG

2) Installation
Install the MG as per the reverse sequence of removal, compression nut (2) must be
locked during installation.
(3) Removal and installation of drive box and integrated control box
1) Removal
a. Remove the cable plugs from the drive box and integrated control box;
b. Remove the fixing screws from the drive box and integrated control box with Allen key 6;
c. Remove the drive box and integrated control box.
See Fig. 6-49 for the removal of drive box and integrated control box

1 2

1. Drive box 2. Integrated control box 3. Screw

Fig. 6-49 Removal of the drive box and the integrated control box
2) Installation
a. Connect the cable plugs to the drive box and integrated control box;
b. Fix the drive box and integrated control box with screws, apply Loctite 222 thread locking
glue prior to tightening.

6-25
(4) Removal and installation elevation driving mechanism
1) Removal
a. Remove the cable plug from the electromagnetic brake;
b. As shown in Fig. 6-50, remove the fixing screws (1) with Allen wrench 6 from the
electromagnetic brake, and remove the electromagnetic brake (2);
c. Remove the reducer fixing screw (1) with flat-end screwdriver;
d. Remove the screw (3) from the motor with Allen wrench 6;
e. Remove the motor and reducer;
f. Loosen the screws fixing the motor (4) output shaft on the reducer (1);
g. Separate motor (4) and reducer (10).
2) Installation
Install the elevation driving mechanism in the sequence opposite to removal, apply Loctite
222 thread locking glue on the screws.
See Fig. 6-51 for the removal of elevation driving mechanism
1

1. Electromagnetic brake fixing screw 2. Electromagnetic brake

Fig. 6-50 Removal of the electromagnetic brake

1 3
2
4

1. Reducer 3. Motor screw

2. Reducer screw 4. Motor
Fig. 6-51 Removal of elevation driving mechanism
(5) Removal and installation of the traversing mechanism
1) Removal
a. Remove the cable plug from the motor of traversing mechanism;
b. Remove the screws (2 and 4) from the traversing mechanism.

6-26
c. Remove traversing mechanism (1) and adjusting shim (3);
2) Installation
Install the traversing mechanism in sequence opposite to removal, and apply Loctite 222
thread locking glug on the screws.
See Fig. 6-52 for the removal of traversing mechanism

3
4

1. Traversing mechanism 3. Adjusting shim

2. Fixing screw 4. Fixing screw
Fig. 6-52 Removal of traversing mechanism
(6) Removal of azimuth electromagnetic brake
1) Removal
a. Remove the cable plug from the electromagnetic brake;
b. Remove the fixing screws with Allen wrench 6 from azimuth electromagnetic brake;
c. Remove azimuth electromagnetic brake (3) and adjusting shim (4).
2) Installation
Install azimuth electromagnetic brake as per the reverse order of removal, and apply
Loctite 222 thread locking glue on screws.
See Fig. 6-53 for the removal of azimuth electromagnetic brake
1 2 3 4

1. Electromagnetic brake mount 3. Electromagnetic brake

2. Fixing screw 4. Adjusting shim
Fig. 6-53 Removal of the azimuth electromagnetic brake

6-27
(7) Removal and installation of the sight
1) Removal
a. Remove the cable plug from the sight (3);
b. Remove screw (2) with Allen wrench 8 from the sight (3);
c. Remove the sight from the cradle.
2) Installation
Install the sight as per reversal sequence of removal, and apply Loctite 222 thread locking
glue on the screw.
See Fig.6-54 for the removal of the sight

1 2 3

1. Cradle 2. Fixing screw 3. Sight

Fig. 6-54 Removal of the sight
(8) Removal and installation of the travelling lock
1) Removal
a. Use open-end wrench (30mm) to loosen the lock nut (1) of travelling lock;
b. Turn the lock body until the lock body is screwed out.
2) Installation
a. Screw the travelling lock into the threaded hole in the support rack until the lock body is
flush with the inner surface of support rack, the lock body shall not protrude over the inner
surface of support rack.
b. When the travelling lock is at locked state, and ring-pull (3) is in horizontal state, tighten the
lock nut of travelling lock.
See Fig. 6-55 for the removal of the travelling lock

6-28
 1

1. Lock nut of rravelling lock 2. Locking body 3. Pull ring

Fig. 6-55 Removal of travelling lock
(9) Removal and installation of elevation sensor and sensor drive shaft
1) Removal
a. Remove the cable plug from the elevation sensor;
b. Use Allen wrench 6 to remove the screws (1) from the elevation sensor (2);
c. Remove the elevation sensor (2).
d. Use flat-end screwdriver to remove the fixing screw (4) from sensor drive shaft (3);
e. Remove the sensor drive shaft (3).
2) Installation
Install elevation sensor and sensor drive shaft in sequence opposite to removal, and apply
Loctite 222 thread locking glue on screws.

2
4

1. Fixing screw 3. Sensor drive shaft

2. Elevation sensor 4. Fixing screw
Fig. 6-56 Removal of the elevation sensor
See Fig. 6-56 for the removal of the elevation sensor
(10) Removal and installation of the switch box
1) Removal
a. Loosen two sets of bolt (1), spring washer (2) and flat washer (3) on the switch box;
b. Separate the switch box with the bracket, then disconnect the cable of the switch box.

6-29
2) Installation
a. Clean the surface of appendant seat for fixing switch box;
b. Connect the cable to switch box;
c. Align the fitting hole of switch box with those in appendant seat;
d. Use bolt (1), spring washer (2) and flat washer (3) to fix the switch box.
See Fig. 6-57 for the switch box.

3 2 1

1. Bolt 2. Spring washer 3. Flat washer

Fig. 6-57 Switch box
(11) Removal and installation of conversion box
1) Removal
a. Loosen two sets of bolt (1), spring washer (2) and flat washer (3) on the conversion box;
b. Separate the conversion box with the bracket, and then disconnect the cable of the
conversion box.
2) Installation
a. Clean the surface of appendant seat for fixing conversion box;
b. Align the fitting hole of conversion box with those in appendant seat;

3
2
1
1. Bolt 2. Spring washer 3. Flat washer
Fig. 6-58 Conversion box
c. As shown in Fig. 6-58, use 2 sets of bolt (1), spring washer (2) and flat washer (3) to fix the
conversion box;
d. Connect the cable to the conversion box.

6-30
6.7.2 Common faults and troubleshooting
(1) The RCWS has no action in elevation and azimuth

Step 1: Check whether the weapon station is energized.

If not powered on, turn the "AAMG" switch on the commander's power
distribution box to the ON position, and then turn the "SA2" switch on the
commander's console to the ON position.

Step 2: If the fault is not removed, check whether the travelling lock is not released.

Release the travelling lock.

Step 3: If the fault still exists, check whether the W5~8 cables are reliably connected.

Step 4: If the fault still exists, report it to the higher maintenance department.

(2) Zero drift

Step 1: Check 12.7mm AAMG for reliable locking.

If not locked, lock it.

Step 2: If the fault still exists, check whether the adjusting bolts and fixing bolts of the
sight are tightened.

If not tightened, tighten them;

Step 3: If the fault still exists, report it to the higher maintenance department.

See Fig. 6-59 for zero drift.

Fig. 6-59 Zero drift

(3) Case ruptured during firing of 12.7mm AAMG

Step 1: Check the bullet for defect;

If bullet is defective, remove it and replace bullet.

Step 2: If fault is not removed, check the bore for damage;

If bore is damaged, replace the barrel.

Step 3: If the fault still exists, report it to the higher maintenance department.

See Fig. 6-60 for the case ruptured during firing of the AAMG

6-31
 The projectile
excessively inserts
in the cartridge case

Fig. 6-60 Case ruptured during firing of the AAMG

(4) Failure to eject of 12.7mm AAMG

Step 1: Check whether the weapon is in the evasion zone.

If so, move the weapon station away from the avoidance area and fire again;

Step 2: Check if safety fuse on console and MG is turned on respectively;

If not, turn on the firing safety switch on switch box to “on” position, or set firing
safety switch on MG to “F” position;

Step 3: Pull breech opening handle and take bullet out;

Step 4: Check the firing electromagnet for action;

If there is action, continue the following steps, if no action, notify higher level
maintenance unit.

Step 5: If fault is not removed, check the bullet for deformation;

If so, replace bullet;

Step 6: If fault is not removed, check the charge chamber for any foreign matters;

If yes, remove the barrel and wash the bore;

Step 7: Check firing pin for being broken

If the fault cannot be rectified, check the firing pin tip for breakage. If any, replace
the firing pin.

Step 8: If the fault still exists, notify it to higher level maintenance department.

(5) Case jamming during firing of 12.7mm AAMG

Step 1: Pull breech opening handle and take bullet out;

Step 2: Check whether the cartridge is loaded on the link-belt in place.

If so, correctly load bullet.

Step 3: If the fault still exists and the recoiling energy lacked, check the gas regulator.

Re-adjust gas regulator;

Step 4: If the fault still exists, notify it to higher level maintenance department.

6-32
(6) Commander display screen has no video of weapon station

Step 1: Check FCS for power on;

In the case of power-off, turn the FCS switch on gunner distribution box to “ON”
position;

Step 2: If fault is not removed, check if the video source on commander’s display and
control terminal is switched to weapon station video;

If not, press the MG.V button on the commander's display and control terminal to
switch the video source.

Step 3: If the fault still exists, check whether the sight cable is connected reliably.

Step 4: If the fault still exists, try to start the RCWS again according to its starting
procedure.

Step 5: If the fault still exists, report it to the higher maintenance department.

(7) Commander display screen has no video of weapon station

Step 1: Check FCS for power on;

In the case of power-off, turn the FCS switch on gunner distribution box to “ON”
position;

Step 2: If fault is not removed, check if the video source on commander’s display and
control terminal is switched to weapon station video;

If not, press the MG.V button on the commander's display and control terminal to
switch the video source.

Step 3: If the fault still exists, check whether the sight cable is connected reliably.

Step 4: If the fault still exists, try to start the RCWS again according to its starting
procedure.

Step 5: If the fault still exists, report it to the higher maintenance department.

(8) Commander display screen has no video of weapon station

Step 1: Check FCS for power on;

In the case of power-off, turn the FCS switch on gunner distribution box to “ON”
position;

Step 2: If fault is not removed, check if the video source on commander’s display and
control terminal is switched to weapon station video;

If not, press the MG.V button on the commander's display and control terminal to
switch the video source.

Step 3: If the fault still exists, check whether the sight cable is connected reliably.

Step 4: If the fault still exists, try to start the RCWS again according to its starting
procedure.

6-33
Step 5: If the fault still exists, report it to the higher maintenance department.

(9) Failure to activate the locking electromagnet

Step 1: Check the weapon station system for power on;

In the case of power-off, turn on “AAMG In-vehicle Operation” switch of the

commander’s distribution box, then turn on the “SA2” switch of the commander’s
console to power on the system;

Step 2: If fault is not removed, check the cable plug of locking electromagnet for proper
connection, if not, connect the plug of locking electromagnet properly.

Step 3: If the fault still exists, report it to the higher maintenance department.

(10) Laser ranging fails or is abnormal

Step 1: Check if the weapon station system is switched to laser (auto) range-finding
mode;

If not, switch the system to the laser (auto) ranging mode.

Step 2: If fault is not removed, check if the tank is within the range-finding scope
(50~2500m);

Otherwise, drive the vehicle into the ranging range.

Step 3: If the fault still exists, try to start the RCWS again according to its starting
procedure.

Step 4: If the fault still exists, report it to the higher maintenance department.

(11) Button of switch box has no response

Step 1: Check the weapon station system for power on;

In the case of power-off, turn on “AAMG In-vehicle Operation” switch of the

commander’s distribution box, then turn on the “SA2” switch of the commander’s
console to power on the system;

Step 2: If the fault is not removed, check if cable plug on the switch box is correctly
connected;

If not, connect the cable plug properly on the switch box;

Step 3: If the fault still exists, try to start the RCWS again according to its starting
procedure.

Step 4: If the fault still exists, report it to the higher maintenance department.

6-34
 Exercise

(1) Gap filling

1) The RCWS is a highly integrated mechatronic weapon system based
on___________and___________to achieve remote operation, which is installed on the top
of the turret to annihilate the moving targets of enemy cluster within 1,600m and suppress
the light weapons of the enemy’s firing points.
2) The RCWS is capable of observing and aiming,______,_______and firing at the targets
outside the vehicle.
3) The RCWS is composed of ___________________and________________
4) The azimuth driving mechanism is mainly composed of_________,____________, an
output gear, and an outer ring gear. It is installed behind the baseplate of the bracket to
drive the weapon to rotate in azimuth.
5) With________________technology, the observing and sighting device is used to collect
the video information on the targets (e.g., tanks and persons) in the battlefield environment
through the CCD white-light camera and the infrared camera.
6) The________, as the core of the control system, is used to collect the control signal, video
signal, bus information and operating signal in a unified pattern and process them logically
to achieve integrated control.
(2) Short briefing
1) Briefly describe the main components of the RCWS.
2) Briefly describe the process for the operation and use of the RCWS.
3) Briefly describe the process for the maintenance and service of the RCWS.
4) Briefly describe the “Failure to eject of 12.7mm AAMG” and troubleshooting process.

6-35