BAE Systems to modify four more Mk 45 Naval Guns

BAE Systems to modify four more Mk 45 naval guns

Air January 24, 2018

BAE Systems is to revamp four further Mk 45 naval guns as part of a lucrative $46.8M US Navy contract modification announced this week.

The amendment calls for the upgrade of existing munitions in line with the Mod 4 configuration to bolster firepower and enhance the weapons range. Modification of the initial ten gun award has now raised the total contract value to $176.8M.

According to BAE Systems, the Mk 45 is the lightest, most compact, five inch fully automatic naval gun in the world today. It is widely used by the US Navy and its allied forces.

Recent updates to the Mod 4 configuration include the structurally strengthened gun mount and more advanced electronics. With a stronger mount, the gun now boasts 50% more fire power, allowing munitions or projectiles to travel faster and farther than ever before. A new fully digitized control system also allocates significantly more computing power and features a contemporary touch-screen user interface.

“The Mk 45 is the industry standard for large caliber naval guns, and the Mod 4 updates make the system easier to integrate onto the ship and more adaptable to advanced munitions,” said Joseph Senftle, vice president and general manager of Weapon Systems at BAE Systems.

“As the world leader in developing and manufacturing maritime guns, we are committed to producing reliable and affordable technology that meets the warfighter’s needs today and well into the future.”

The revamped Mk 45 is expected to remain in service for the foreseeable future. Work on the Mk 45 Mod 4 conversion will be performed at a BAE Systems’ facility in Louisville, Kentucky, with support from the contractor’s supplier base. Work is expected to be complete by 2021.

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BAE Systems Mk 45 Mod 4 US Navy