This 30 mm M86 weapon is of Yugoslav design and manufacture and is intended for installation in tracked and wheeled armoured fighting vehicles as well as antiaircraft systems. The 30 mm M86 weapon is installed in the Yugoslav BVP M80AK infantry fighting vehicle, the latest version of the BVP M80 series. Production of this vehicle is complete although it remains in service. It fires standard 30 x 192 mm ammunition. The M86 is a gas-operated belt-fed cannon that can be fed from either side with the spent cartridge cases being ejected forwards. It has an integral gas buffer and spring recuperator which reduces the recoil load on the mounting. The barrel can be removed or replaced easily and the feed system is powered by recoil energy and is capable of lifting a 40 round length of belt. Belt cocking and sear release are both performed by hydraulic mechanisms and firing is controlled by a 24 V electric circuit.
Variant
There is a separate entry for the 30 mm M89 cannon which is based on the 30 mm M86.
Status
Production probably complete. In service with the Yugoslav Army. In view of the current situation in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia it is possible that production of this weapon has ceased.