Contract Modification Brings Value to $176.8 Million
BAE Systems has been awarded a contract modification for modernisation of a total of 14 Mk 45 naval guns for the US Navy (USN), bringing total contract value to $176 8 million, the company announced on 22 January.
The company will upgrade existing guns to the Mod 4 configuration to increase the firepower and extend the range of the weapons. The Mk 45 is the lightest, most compact, fully automatic 5in naval gun in the world and is the most widely deployed to the US and allied navies. Updates to the Mod 4 configuration include a structurally strengthened gun mount and more advanced electronics. With its stronger mount, the gun can achieve 50 percent higher firing energy, allowing munitions or projectiles to travel faster and farther. Its new fully digitised control system also provides significantly greater computing power and features a touch-screen user interface. The upgraded Mk 45 guns are expected to remain in service for decades to come. The cost-effective Mod 4 conversion helps increase their adaptability for advanced munitions that are under development and are considered an essential component of future surface warfare. Work will be conducted at the company’s Louisville, KY facilities and completion is expected by 2021.
“The Mk 45 is the industry standard for large calibre naval guns and the Mod 4 updates make the system easier to integrate onto the ship and more adaptable to advanced munitions,” explained Joseph Senftle, Vice President and General Manager of Weapon Systems at BAE Systems.
Tim Mahon