BAE Systems, a global defence and security company, has secured a contract to supply the Royal Australian Navy’s new Hunter class frigates with the Mk 45 Medium Caliber Gun and automated Ammunition Handling System (AHS).
This advanced gun system is designed to offer adaptability and integration capabilities for advanced munitions, enhancing the frigates’ firepower to meet their deterrence mission, the company said in a press release.
Brent Butcher, vice president and general manager of Weapon Systems at BAE Systems, expressed pride in the partnership with BAE Systems Maritime Australia.
He stated, “The highly reliable Mk 45 system maximizes 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 noted.
The Mk 45 gun system features the 5-inch, 62-calibre Mk 45 Mod 4A naval gun, coupled with a fully automated AHS.
This integrated system ensures a continuous supply of ammunition to the gun, even in challenging high sea state conditions, without requiring crew assistance.
The automated nature of the gun system not only increases Sailor productivity but also reduces risks to Sailor safety, thereby enhancing the operational capability of the Mk 45 at sea.
The contract, set to commence in 2023 and conclude in 2036, involves engineering work to be carried out in Minneapolis, Minnesota, with production taking place in Louisville, Kentucky.
BAE Systems, renowned for its expertise in defence technology, has delivered over 280 shipboard applications to the US Navy and has a proven track record with its systems deployed on 11 fleets worldwide.
