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Euronaval 2018: BAE Systems Vulcano Precision Guided Munition & Mk 45 Naval Gun


At Euronaval 2018, the naval defense show held last week in France, BAE Systems showcased the Vulcano precision-guided munitions and the new fully Automated Handling System for the Mk 45 naval gun system.


Euronaval 2018 BAE Systems Vulcano Precision Guided Munition Mk 45 Naval Gun 5" Vulcano Precision Guided Munition on the BAE Systems stand at Euronaval 2018.


About Vulcano precision-guided munition

BAE Systems and Leonardo have come together to offer a low-risk, precision-guided solution that is more affordable and higher performing than current alternatives.

Offering significantly greater range and precision, the Vulcano is compatible with the majority of land and naval platforms including 155mm and 5-inch (127mm) gun systems to defeat land and sea threats. The Vulcano family capitalizes on new and emerging technology based on a fin-stabilized airframe with canard control for extended range and terminal guidance, with mechanical interfaces that are the same as standard ammunition.

As the original equipment manufacturer of major gun systems such as the Mk 51 Advanced Gun System, the Mk 45 naval gun and the M777 and M109 howitzers, BAE Systems is best suited to integrate Vulcano into these weapons. Similarly, the latest adaptations of Vulcano are compatible with the majority of in-service artillery systems including Leonardo’s 127/64 LW and 127/54C naval guns.


Interview with John Perri from BAE Systems about the Vulcano precision guided munition and the Mk45 naval gun system at Euronaval 2018.


About Mk 45 Mod 4 Naval Gun System

The 5-inch (127-mm) 62-caliber Mk 45 Mod 4 Naval Gun system is in U.S. Navy service today, and is ready to significantly enhance Naval Surface Fire Support (NSFS) and overall mission performance.

Major upgrades of the Mk 45 Mod 4 include a 62-caliber barrel, strengthened gun and mount subsystems, advanced control system enhancement, and a reduced signature, low maintenance gun shield.

The Mk 45 Mod 4 provides NSFS range of more than 20 nautical miles (36 km) with the Navy's new 5-inch Cargo projectile and an improved propelling charge.

Operation and performance of extended-range munitions are tailored for optimal effect and range in unison with the major subsystem upgrades of the Mk 45 Mod 4 Naval Gun.

Starting with DDG 81, Mk 45 Mod 4 is being forward-fit to U.S. Navy DDG 51 Class destroyers. Other Mod 4 applications include installations for the fleets of South Korea, Japan and Denmark. Existing Mk 45 Mod 0-2 mounts can be upgraded to the Mod 4 configuration, which is planned for CG 47 Class ships as part of the Navy's Cruiser Modernization Program.

Mk 45 Mod 4 and its news automated handling system has been selected for the Royal Navy's future Type 26 Frigate.