Raytheon has received a modification contract worth US$ 205 million for the MK 15 Phalanx CIWS close-in weapon system of the U.S. Navy.
According to the U.S. Department of Defense, the agreement covers upgrades, conversions, overhauls, and the provision of related equipment. Work is expected to be completed by January 2029.
The Phalanx CIWS is considered the last line of defense for warships against anti-ship missiles, aircraft, and coastal threats that penetrate other layers of fleet protection. It is the only operational system capable of independently performing search, detection, tracking, and target destruction assessment.
History and Upgrades
- 1980: first deployment aboard the aircraft carrier USS Coral Sea
- 1988: upgrade to Block 1 on the battleship USS Wisconsin
- 1999: introduction of Block 1B on the USS Underwood
The Block 1B variant incorporated stabilized electro-optical sensors, enhancing capability against asymmetric threats such as fast surface craft, helicopters, and drones.
Technical Specifications
- Weight: 13,600 lbs (6,120 kg)
- Armament: M-61A1 Gatling rotary cannon, 20 mm caliber
- Rate of fire: up to 4,500 rounds/minute against missiles and aircraft; 3,000 rounds/minute against asymmetric threats
- Magazine capacity: 1,550 disposable sabot rounds
The contract reinforces Raytheon’s role as the primary provider of Phalanx upgrades, a system that remains a cornerstone of U.S. naval defense after more than four decades in service.
Source: war.gov | RTX. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
