BAE, Leonardo partner on precision-guided munitions

BAE Systems and Leonardo are partnering to develop new precision-guided munitions for use with large-calibre weapon systems, BAE Systems announced on 28 June.

The programme will focus on adaptations and derivatives of Leonardo’s current Vulcano line of precision-guided artillery ammunition. 

The new munitions would be used in a variety of gun systems, including the standard MK-45 naval gun and the BAE Advanced Gun System. 

In addition to naval guns, the programme will also focus on providing improved ranges for ground-based 155mm artillery systems, including all variants of the M777 and M109 howitzers used by the US and its allies. 

During testing, the 155mm Vulcano has achieved launch accelerations that support maximum engagement ranges similar to distances required for the former Long Range Land Attack Projectile programme. The Mk 45 naval gun provides the potential to fire the five-inch Vulcano at 20 rounds per minute to a maximum range over three times greater than existing munitions.

Joe Senftle, VP and general manager of Weapon Systems at BAE Systems, said: ‘As a leading global provider and integrator of all major calibre weapon systems, we are expertly positioned to integrate mission-driven, advanced and affordable munitions like Vulcano into land and naval gun systems’.

The companies will also look to offer an enhanced guidance and navigation unit, including semi-active laser and infrared seeker options designed to ensure pinpoint accuracy and provide moving-target capability to address air-, land- and sea-based threats from land and naval weapons.

Related Equipment in Defence Insight

Vulcano 127 GLR (Guided Long Range)

M777

M109 Paladin