Automated Antiaircraft Cannon Malfunctions, Kills 9, Wounds 14
Event Year: | 2007 | Reliability: | Confirmed |
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Country: | South Africa | ||
Industry Type: | Other | ||
Description: | A software glitch is being blamed for an antiaircraft cannon malfunction that killed 9 soldiers and seriously injured 14 others during a shooting exercise. The cause of the malfunction is not known. The South African National Defense Force is investigating whether a software glitch was the cause. The anti-aircraft weapon, an Oerlikon GDF-005, which is computerized opened fire uncontrollably. |
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Impact: | Computerized weapon fired uncontrollably during a shooting exercise killing 9 specators and injuring 14 others. A computer glitch is being blamed for the malfunction, though the possibility of mechanical failure has not been ruled out. |