BAE Systems wins contract for Australian Navy gun system upgrade

LOUISVILLE – BAE Systems (LON:) has secured a contract to upgrade the Mk 45 Mod 2 naval gun systems for the Commonwealth of Australia, enhancing the capabilities of Anzac class frigates with a new Common Control System (CCS). This initiative aims to address obsolescence and extend the lifespan of the gun systems.

The CCS upgrade will bring earlier Mk 45 Mod 1 and Mod 2 gun systems in line with the Mk 45 Mod 4 configuration, which is currently in use by the U.S. Navy. This upgrade will provide compatibility and interoperability with U.S. naval gun systems and prepare the Mk 45s to accommodate future precision guided munitions, including the hypervelocity projectile.

Butcher, vice president of weapon systems at BAE Systems, stated that the CCS upgrade represents the most economical approach to prolong the operational life of the Mk 45 gun systems. It ensures the systems remain viable for decades and can integrate cutting-edge technology and advanced munitions for future missions at a significantly reduced cost compared to acquiring new guns.

Production work for the contract is scheduled to occur at BAE Systems’ facility in Louisville, Kentucky, with the first upgraded system expected to be delivered in early 2026.

The information for this article is based on a press release statement.

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