The US Navy awarded BAE Systems a contract exceeding USD 70 million for the upgrade of Mk 45 5-inch naval gun systems and related equipment the company announced on 27 January.
In September, BAE Systems was awarded a modification worth USD 23.5 million to a previously established USD 47 million contract from late July, resulting in a cumulative total surpassing USD 70 million. This contract entails the upgrading and refurbishment of current systems to the Mk 45 Mod 4 configuration.
The enhancement to the Mk 45 Mod 4 configuration encompasses a 62-calibre barrel and a reinforced gun mount. Additionally, it incorporates a fully digital control system that seamlessly integrates targeting and fire control information. Collectively, these enhancements facilitate the utilization of modernized munitions that deliver 50% greater firing energy and prepare for the deployment of future precision-guided munitions with exceptional ranges.
The upgrades and refurbishments to the Mk 45 represent a cost-efficient approach to ensure that US Navy personnel possess the contemporary long-range strike and air defense capabilities necessary for optimal performance, supported by a substantial inventory of advanced 5-inch projectiles that can be easily replenished at sea.
BAE Systems stated that by modernizing these systems, the US Navy will benefit from the latest technological advancements that will enhance the effectiveness of advanced munitions and future operational capabilities, all at a lower expense compared to acquiring a new gun system.
“Events in the Red Sea this year have underscored the importance of firepower aboard U.S. Navy ships,” said Brent Butcher, vice president of Weapon Systems at BAE Systems.
“Equipped with the latest configuration of the Mk45 gun system, the men and women in the Navy have the capabilities to protect themselves at sea. We continue our commitment to providing the latest naval gun technology, including advanced munitions, to U.S. Sailors and their allies.”
Mk 45 Mod 4 Naval Gun System
Enhancements to the Mk 45 Mod 4 include a 62-calibre barrel, reinforced gun and mount subsystems, an upgraded control system, and a low-maintenance gun shield designed to minimize its signature. The Mk 45 Mod 4 is capable of delivering naval surface fire support (NSFS) at a range exceeding 20 nautical miles (36 km) when utilizing the US Navy’s new 5-inch Cargo projectile along with an improved propelling charge. The operation and performance of extended-range munitions are optimized for maximum effectiveness and range, aligning with the substantial subsystem upgrades of the Mk 45 Mod 4 Naval Gun.
Beginning with USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81), the Mk 45 Mod 4 is being integrated into the US Navy’s Arleigh Burke-class (DDG 51 Class) destroyers. Additional applications of Mod 4 include installations for the naval fleets of South Korea, Japan, and Denmark. Existing Mk 45 Mod 0-2 mounts can be upgraded to the Mod 4 configuration, which is also planned for CG 47 Class ships as part of the Navy’s Cruiser Modernization Program.
BAE Systems brings over 30 years of expertise with Mk 45 Mods 0-4, having more than 240 shipboard applications within the US Navy and nine international fleets. Comprehensive life-cycle support is tailored to the customer and can be enhanced by the global logistics system that supports the US Navy.