UK To Integrate 62-Calibre Mark 45 Naval Gun On Type 26 Global Combat Ships For $240 million

The UK Maritime Indirect Fire System (MIFS) will be integrated onto the Type 26 Global Combat Ships, currently being designed by BAE Systems.

MIFS includes the 5-inch, 62-calibre Mark 45 Naval Gun System, which is already in service with other NATO nations, including the US and Spanish navies, the UK department of defense said in a statement Thursday.

Minister for Defence Procurement Harriett Baldwin said, “Our growing defence budget means we can invest in a cutting edge weapon system for the Royal Navy’s next generation Global Combat Ship at the best value for taxpayers.”

The new contract covers the design and manufacture of the first three guns, as well as a training system and ammunition.

BAE Systems, Weapon Systems and Munitions, based in the US, will lead on the work to bring the weapons system into service, with subcontractor work being undertaken by:

BAE Maritime Services Frimley & Broad Oak to develop, supply and integrate MIFS gunfire control.

BAE Munitions Glascoed, which is carrying out the UK ammunition qualification and BAE Weapons Systems Barrow, which is supporting the UK equipment safety cases.

Deliveries of the gun to the UK are expected to begin in 2020.