Land Attack Technology

The Land Attack Tech program, specifically Project 2038, focuses on advancing the capabilities of minor caliber gun systems for the U.S. Navy. The primary goal is to enhance the 25mm MK 38 MOD 2 and MOD 3 Machine Gun Systems, which are crucial for Anti-Surface Warfare (ASUW) and Anti-terrorism and Force Protection (AT/FP). These systems are installed on various U.S. Navy and Coast Guard vessels to counter small boat threats effectively. A significant aspect of this project is upgrading the MK 38 MOD 3 with enhanced electro-optical/infrared sensors to improve its ability to counter unmanned aerial threats.

Another key objective of Project 2038 is the development and fielding of the 30mm MK 38 MOD 4 Gun Weapon System (GWS). This system aims to provide greater accuracy, lethality, and range for countering both Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) and Unmanned Surface Vehicles (C-USV). The integration of a highly accurate fire control system, targeting sensor, and AEGIS combat system is expected to significantly boost the defensive capabilities of DDG 51 Flight IIA and Flight III AEGIS Destroyers. The project includes comprehensive testing phases such as Function Integration Testing, Functional Acceptance Testing, AEGIS Light-off, Structural Test Firing, and an at-sea Quick Reaction Assessment.

The program also emphasizes logistics development and qualification processes for the new gun systems. This involves creating documentation to support Initial Operational Capabilities (IOC) and conducting various system certifications. The engineering services required for these developments are provided by several Naval Surface Warfare Centers, including those in Dahlgren, Indian Head Picatinny, and Crane. These centers contribute technical direction, configuration management, logistics support, and test engineering expertise.

Project 2038 under the Land Attack Tech program seeks to deliver a cost-effective solution for enhancing ship self-defense capabilities against emerging threats. By upgrading existing systems and developing new ones concurrently, the program aims to rapidly deploy critical defensive technologies across the fleet.