Up to 41 systems are concerned, including nine overhauls and upgrades

The UK has awarded a three-year €20 (£17.9) million contract to Babcock International (Babcock) to continue providing support to Royal Navy’s Phalanx Close-In Weapon Support System (CIWS): a rapid-fire, computer-controlled, radar-guided gun that can defeat anti-ship missiles and other close-in threats.

Babcock has provided Phalanx in-service support since 2006. Under the contract, awarded by the UK Ministry of Defence’s Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) organisation, the company’s work will concern up to 41 systems, including nine overhauls and upgrades. In addition, it will also be responsible for logistics and obsolescence management, availability, and reliability of the Phalanx.

CIWS features a 20mm gun capable of firing armour-piercing bullets at up to 4,500 rounds per minute – and is used on multiple Royal Navy platforms, including the Albion-class landing platform dock, Royal Fleet Auxiliary, Type 45 Class destroyer and Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers.

Neal Misell, CEO at Babcock’s Mission Systems business, said: “With increased geopolitical instability, it’s vital the Royal Navy has the appropriate tools to fulfil its duties. We’re proud to provide in-service support for the Phalanx system – an important part of the Royal Navy’s gunnery. Babcock’s world-class weapons team plays a central role in ensuring the Royal Navy’s sailors and its ships are kept safe at sea.”

Babcock’s weapons team is based at its Devonport facility where, alongside the Phalanx, it provides a host of services to the Royal Navy, including in-service support for the 4.5” gun.

Vicky Stanley, International Guns, Missiles and Rockets Team leader at DE&S, said: “Support contracts like this with Babcock are vital in ensuring a widely used, versatile weapon remains effective for years to come.”