BAE machine guns for Canadian AOPS

BAE Systems has been awarded a sub-contract by Irving Shipbuilding of Canada to supply up to six modified 25mm Mk 38 Machine Gun Systems for the Royal Canadian Navy’s Arctic Offshore Patrol Ship (AOPS) programme. 

The first gun system will be delivered by BAE Systems in 2017. Follow-on deliveries would continue with around one each year until 2021, as the AOPS ships are constructed and made ready for launch.

The Mk 38 System features the M242 Cannon, and a surveillance and gun targeting system. The systems will be modified for protection from arctic conditions.

The contract also covers long-term field support, spare parts and technical support services.

Joseph Senftle, vice president and general manager, weapons systems, BAE Systems, said: ‘We will be working very closely with Canadian industry on this programme. 

‘BAE Systems is currently selecting its Canadian partners to participate not only in the build of these naval gun systems, but also to join our Mk 38 global supply chain. This will help bring sustained economic value to Canada as part of the AOPS programme.’

Irving Shipbuilding is the prime contractor and will build the ships at its Halifax shipyards. Six vessels will be introduced under the AOPS programme to patrol the Arctic region and support surveillance and sovereignty operations.