I guess I'm in the minority but I think it's a pretty cool piece of technology.
It is effective w/both lethal and non-lethal ammunition.
It could be used to create "smart guns" so only authorized users can fire the weapon, and "dead zones" so the weapon will not fire if taken into specific locations (schools, government building, etc.,)
And, as another user pointed out, it could be used to replace current anti-missle weapons.
Obviously the "bullet firing" version would not likely be an anti-personal weapon because that would be uber overkill. But it could be an anti-armor weapon (something in the same vein as the A-10's tank shredder).
Here's a blurb from a FAQ at the Metal Storm website:
"Metal Storm is much more than a gun system. Outside its application as a weapon system, the technology has potential application in a range of diverse commercial areas, including fire fighting, precision agricultural chemical distribution, fastening systems for use in the construction industry, and seismic surveying for minerals and oil.
Also Metal Storm is not just about firing bullets. First and foremost Metal Storm is an electronically controlled delivery system. One which can store and fire bullets, or grenades, and which can just as easily fire massed containers of fire retardant powder, or similarly, agricultural chemicals.
Metal Storm Limited is pressing ahead with both military and civilian applications of the technology, including, in the longer term, applications such as industrial fasteners and nails, and, in the shorter term, an exciting aerial fireworks system capable of creating unique air-burst patterns and colours, and perhaps even complex advertising slogans in the night sky."
Lethal
