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BAE Systems has received a contract to deliver multiple shipsets of the Mk 45 medium-calibre gun and automated Ammunition Handling System (AHS) for the Royal Australian Navy’s future fleet of Hunter class frigates.
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BAE’s Mk 45 gun system combines the five-inch, 62-calibre Mk 45 Mod 4A naval gun with a fully automated AHS that continuously supplies the gun with ammunition, in high sea state conditions, without assistance from the crew; this automated gun system increases sailor productivity, reduces risk to sailor safety, and increases the operational capability of the Mk 45 at sea.
The Mk 45 gun system will equip the Royal Australian Navy with a common, adaptable gun system that can easily integrate advanced munitions to provide the firepower required to meet the Hunter class deterrence mission.
Brent Butcher, vice-president and general manager of weapon systems at BAE Systems, welcomed this contract announcement, saying: “We are proud to partner with BAE Systems Maritime Australia to deliver the Mk 45 gun system and Ammunition Handling System to the Royal Australian Navy.”
Work on the contract will begin in 2023 and finish in 2036. Engineering work will be completed in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and production will occur in Louisville, Kentucky.
“The highly reliable Mk 45 system maximises the lethality of the Hunter class frigates, offers the capability to integrate advanced munitions, and supports additional future technology upgrades. With this system fielded on 11 fleets across the globe, it has proven it offers high reliability,” Butcher added.
The Mk 45 system Mod 4 incorporates a host of major upgrades, including a 62-calibre barrel, strengthened gun and mount subsystems, advanced control system enhancement, and a reduced signature, low-maintenance gun shield. These improvements provide Naval Surface Fire Support (NSFS) at ranges of more than 20 nautical miles (36 kilometres) with the new five-inch US Navy-developed cargo projectile and an improved propelling charge.
BAE Systems has delivered over 280 shipboard applications to the US Navy and 11 fleets across the globe. Full life-cycle support is keyed to the customer and can be supplemented by the worldwide logistics system supporting the US Navy.
