BAE Systems Begins Advancement of Royal Navy’s Firepower

BAE Systems has initiated a significant advancement in the Royal Navy's maritime capabilities by starting the integration of the Mk 45 naval gun system onto HMS Glasgow. This marks a pivotal step in the modernization of the U.K. Royal Navy's surface fleet, as HMS Glasgow is the lead ship in a series of eight next-generation Type 26 frigates.

This integration process is historic, as it represents the first time the Mk 45 and its Ammunition Handling System (AHS) are being fitted onto a Type 26 frigate. The sophisticated Mk 45 gun system comprises of the powerful 5-inch, 62-caliber Mk 45 Mod 4A naval gun, which is supported by a fully automated AHS. This automation is crucial as it ensures that the gun can be reloaded under all sea conditions, thus enhancing safety standards and reducing the number of crew required for its operation.

The operational significance of the Mk 45 gun system extends beyond its technological advancements. In February 2023, BAE Systems secured a substantial $219 million contract to provide the Mk 45 and AHS for subsequent Type 26 frigates of the U.K. Royal Navy. This demonstrates the Navy's confidence in the system's capabilities and its commitment to equipping its fleet with top-tier armaments.

The Mk 45 system's influence is also being felt internationally, with the Australian Navy opting for the same gun system for its Hunter Class frigates, which share the Type 26's design lineage. This underscores the system's global appeal and the interoperability benefits it presents for allied naval forces.

Behind the scenes of this program, BAE Systems' Minneapolis, Minnesota facility orchestrates the engineering and program support. Production of the Mk 45 takes place in Louisville, Kentucky, showcasing the transatlantic partnership between the United Kingdom and the United States in defense manufacturing.

The integration of the Mk 45 naval gun system into HMS Glasgow and future Royal Navy frigates augments the fleet's combat capabilities, reaffirms BAE Systems‘ role as a key defense partner, and showcases the company's expertise in producing advanced naval weaponry that meets the demanding requirements of modern-day maritime warfare. As the HMS Glasgow prepares to set sail with its new artillery, the Royal Navy looks forward to a considerable enhancement in its surface fleet's firepower and a reinforced position in global maritime security.