[Rush104]

What, in your opinion, has been the most effective weapons/weapons systems used in the last 50 years? It could be anything: planes, ships, guns, etc. My candidates are:
1) B-52
2) AIM-9 Sidewinder
3) M61 Vulcan
4) A-10
5) C-130

Honorable mentions go to the A-4, A-6, and SR-71...

[mikeb1958]

I would have to say the B-52, since it has been around for over 50 years and still going strong. Carries one hell of a bomb load too.

[Cavtanker]

I'd have to go with the helicopter. For attack aviation support, assault aviation support, MEDEVAC support, lift capabilities, and scout support. Sorry, I know it's not on the list.

[smartd]

I'll submit the nuclear powered aircraft carrier. Got anything that can beat it?

[mikeb1958]

Originally Posted by smartd

I'll submit the nuclear powered aircraft carrier. Got anything that can beat it?

That takes the cake, too bad they didn't have a few B-52's on it. But with their range you dont need that.

[Epapazian]

Originally Posted by smartd

I'll submit the nuclear powered aircraft carrier. Got anything that can beat it?

Nuclear powered subs would come close, but only in nation to nation warfare and general intimidation, not for anti-Taliban-style wars in Afghanistan for example

[Rush104]

Cav and smartd,

Good answers! And, Cav, helos completely slipped my mind when making my choices...

I want to hear what everybody else's choices would be. I made my picks...

[1250ships]

How about the last 85 years? Browning M2:

[Rush104]

Let's just stick to the last 50...

[Epapazian]

Actually, when you think about it, some of the more basic weapons--like Russia's AK-47 or its RPGs ---should be considered in such a discussion, along with the more glamorous B-52, Nuclear powered aircraft carriers, etc.