Originally Posted by rwthomas1;

I've always felt that there were very few problems a belt fed machine gun wouldn't cure.

Ship mounted .50 caliber guns can be easily installed, heavily armored and given the size of most ships, practically unlimited in ammo supply. Pirates may show up with RPG's or even 20mm but it would seem most pirates are not particularly well equipped nor do they like facing serious resistance.

A quad 50 mount on the bow, another at the stern and one each amidships would allow at least 2 interlocking fields of fire in any direction and 3 to the sides. 8 to 12 .50 cals hammering away at a threatening vessel, their boarding party, etc. would make things very difficult for pirates.

RT