BAE to upgrade Mk 45 naval guns

BAE Systems has been awarded a contract by the US Navy to overhaul and upgrade Mk 45 naval gun systems on the US Navy Destroyer Class (DDG) ships, the company announced on 12 August.

Under the initial contract worth $80 million, the company will upgrade six guns to the Mod 4 configuration. The contract also provides an option for the upgrade of another four guns, which, if exercised in 2016, would see the contract value rise to $130 million.

The Mod 4 capability upgrades include a low maintenance gun shield, reduced signature, enhanced advanced control systems, strengthened gun and mount subsystems and a 62-calibre barrel. These upgrades will support a potential increase in naval surface fire support range achieved through future extended-range guided munitions.

The delivery of the first upgraded gun is scheduled for October 2017 and the last delivery will be made in January 2020.

Joseph Senftle, vice president and general manager, weapon systems, BAE Systems, said: ‘Our combat-proven Mk 45 Naval Gun System provides ships with an effective weapon for anti-surface, strike, fire support, and anti-air warfare combat.

‘This award strengthens our position in large calibre guns and promotes the United States’ naval gun industrial base.’