BAE Systems awarded MK 38 work
BAE Systems Land & Armaments will supply the MK 38 MOD 3 Machine Gun System (MGS) to the US Navy under a $19 million contract modification announced on 10 June.
The modification covers the MK 38 MOD 3 25mm MGS ordnance alteration and associated spares.
The alteration to the MK 38 MOD 1 25mm MGS provides an upgrade via the addition of two-axis stabilisation, an improved electro-optical sight system, improved multi-function display, modified main control panel, a new main computing unit, a 7.62mm machine gun and remote control operation.
The resulting MK38 MOD 3 provides an advantage because its surveillance system moves separately from the gun system, preventing adversaries from easily knowing they have been detected. It offers a range of 2.5km and selectable rates of fire from single to 180 rounds per minute, and fires all US Navy-approved 25mm ammunition. With the ability to remotely operate the system from the combat information centre, operators can remain out of harm’s way.
Work is expected to be completed by September 2021
More from Naval Warfare
-
Second rMCM vessel begins sea trials, advances autonomous minesweeping
The rMCM programme will ultimately comprise of 12 vessels, six each working for the Belgian and the Royal Netherlands Navy.
-
Long-delayed polar icebreaker programme gets cash and impetus boost
The US Government has awarded a significant contract to move along its Polar Security Cutter programme.
-
Avalon 2025: Kongsberg confirms its first Australian missile factory
The deal, which has been planned since August 2024, is part of an ongoing attempt to bolster Australia’s defences against the potential of Chinese aggression.
-
TKMS joins forces with Norwegian shipbuilder for Fridtjof Nansen frigate replacement bid
Four shipbuilders have been downselected to build the frigate replacement programme, and TKMS hopes the new deal will give it a geographical advantage.
-
As Australian resistance rises, is AUKUS in trouble?
The tripartite submarine project is under political pressure from a grass-roots Australian Labor Party movement, but it could also have practical issues in its way.
-
Newest Arleigh Burke Flight III destroyer launched and ready for fitting
DDG 129, which will become the USS Jeremiah Denton on commissioning, was moved to dry dock to begin its technical fitting and testing.