CIWS Mods

The Close-In Weapons System (CIWS) Mods program is a critical initiative by the Navy to enhance the defensive capabilities of its fleet. The primary goal is to upgrade and modify existing CIWS units, which are essential for providing terminal defense against anti-ship missiles and high-speed aircraft. These modifications aim to improve the system's ability to autonomously detect, track, and engage threats using advanced radar and electro-optic technologies. The CIWS Block 1B configuration is specifically designed to counter asymmetric threats such as small, fast surface craft and unmanned aerial vehicles by incorporating an integrated Forward-Looking Infra-Red (FLIR) sensor.

A key objective of the CIWS Mods program is addressing safety, obsolescence, and reliability issues through hardware procurements. This involves installing Engineering Change Proposals (ECPs) and Ordnance Alterations (ORDALTs) across numerous U.S. Navy and Coast Guard shipboard systems. Enhancements include the Optimized Gun Barrel for improved ordnance dispersion and Enhanced Lethality Cartridges for better target penetration. Additionally, the MK 15 MOD 40 CIWS RAM Defense Capability configuration is being deployed on select Nimitz Class Carriers to provide rapid response ASM defense using Rolling Airframe Missiles.

The program also emphasizes integrating new technologies to increase operational availability and reduce maintenance requirements. For example, the Block 1B Gun Ammo Handling System ORDALT introduces a modified design with improved materials to prevent ammo handling jams. Similarly, the Electronic Gun Drive ORDALT replaces pneumatic components with an electric drive system, enhancing engagement capabilities by offering better control over fire rates while reducing maintenance hours and increasing reliability.

Furthermore, significant upgrades like the Block 1B Baseline 2 Radar Upgrade Kit are included in the program. This upgrade aims to replace obsolete components with state-of-the-art digital radar technology that enhances performance and reliability. By introducing advanced commercial off-the-shelf signal processing and low noise signal sources, this upgrade improves sensitivity and Doppler coverage necessary for detecting advanced threats while reducing sailor man-hours required for system maintenance by a notable percentage. These efforts collectively ensure that the Navy's fleet remains equipped with cutting-edge defensive systems capable of countering evolving threats effectively.