Mechem NTW-20

The NTW-20 is a South African anti-materiel rifle developed by Denel Mechem in the 1990s. Designed by Tony Neophytou, its development began in August 1995 under the Aerotek name, with a working prototype ready in four and a half months. This rapid progress was made possible by expertise in recoil reduction systems and recycling the barrel, bolt, and barrel extension of the existing Vektor GA1 automatic cannon. The weapon was put into production by Denel Land Systems.

The rifle is intended for deployment against targets including parked aircraft, telecommunication masts, power lines, missile sites, radar installations, refineries, satellite dishes, gun emplacements, bunkers, and personnel, using a range of specialised projectiles. A muzzle brake fitted to the barrel end absorbs an estimated 50% to 60% of recoil, further supplemented by a buffered slide in the receiver. The magazine protrudes from the left side of the receiver. For ease of transport, the NTW can be disassembled and packed into two backpacks.

The weapon was put into production by Denel Land Systems in two primary versions distinguished by caliber: 20 x 110 and 20 x 82. The 20 x 82 model is also available with conversion capability to 14.5 x 114 caliber; conversion between 20x82mm and 14.5x114mm requires changing the bolt, barrel, sighting gear, and magazine, and can be accomplished in the field without specialised tools. The larger 20 x 110 model is not designed for caliber switching.

The rifle was accepted into service with the South African National Defence Force in 1998 for use in the anti-materiel role against specified targets.

Users include:

• The South African National Defence Force.