BAE Systems has been granted a contract by Australia to upgrade the current Mk 45 Mod 2 naval gun systems on Anzac-class frigates with a Common Control System (CCS). The upgrade aims to eliminate obsolescence issues and extend the life of the gun system.
“The Common Control System upgrade is the most cost-effective way to extend the life of Mk 45 gun systems, enabling them to provide critical ship naval fires and creating a configuration that allows for the integration of future precision guided munitions” said Brent Butcher, vice president of weapon systems at BAE Systems.
“We are committed to modernizing and equipping allied nations with enhanced Mk 45 gun systems to address current and future threats.”
The CCS upgrade is a replacement of the electronics used in the earlier Mk 45 Mod 1 and Mod 2 gun systems to make them compatible with the latest configuration, Mk 45 Mod 4, used by the U.S. Navy. This upgrade not only provides commonality and interoperability with the Navy’s gun systems but also equips the Mk 45s with the capability to integrate future extended-range precision-guided munitions, such as hypervelocity projectiles.
The CCS upgrade is a cost-effective solution that ensures the Mk 45 gun systems remain supportable for decades to come and can integrate the latest technology features to support advanced munitions and future mission capabilities, all at a significantly lower cost than purchasing a new gun.
The upgrades of the Mk 45 Mod 4 include a 62-calibre 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.
The work on the contract will take place at the BAE Systems production facility in Louisville, Kentucky. The first delivery is expected in early 2026.
