M6 Linebacker

Development and design

The Linebacker used a modified M2A2 ODS Bradley and replaced the TOW launcher with a four-round Stinger launcher. It kept the Bradley’s 25 mm cannon and armor, allowing air defenders to move with heavy maneuver formations. ^{1, 2}

Operational use

The system served in U.S. Army air-defense units but was later removed as the Army reduced organic short-range air defense during the post-Cold War period. ^{1, 2}

Role and significance

M6 is the direct conceptual predecessor to the modern return of armored maneuver SHORAD: a frontline combat vehicle carrying both cannon and missiles to protect moving formations. ^{1, 2}

Sources and further reading

Representative source set used for this profile. Primary image source and reuse terms are listed with the image.

1. U.S. Army Weapon Systems Handbook, M6 Linebacker
2. U.S. Army ADA Journal, Linebacker history

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