Coast Guard Weapons

The Coast Guard Weapons program, as detailed in Line Item 4206 of the Department of Defense (DoD) budget, is a Navy-managed procurement effort that funds the acquisition and integration of Navy-Type/Navy-Owned (NT/NO) gun weapon systems for United States Coast Guard (USCG) cutters. This program is executed under an inter-service agreement (OPNAVINST 4000.79 series), ensuring that Coast Guard units are equipped to fulfill naval warfare tasks alongside U.S. Navy forces. The primary objective is to provide the Coast Guard with weapon systems that are interoperable with Navy combat systems. This supports National Fleet objectives and enhances both self-defense and offensive capabilities of USCG surface assets.

One of the central components of this line item is the procurement of the 57mm MK 110 Gun, which serves as the primary weapon system for the Offshore Patrol Cutter (OPC) and National Security Cutter (NSC). The MK 110 is designed to engage surface threats, particularly high-speed coastal patrol craft, at ranges beyond those of smaller caliber weapons. The program includes the gun mounts, recurring engineering, and integrated logistics support (ILS) to ensure sustained operational readiness. These systems are aligned with OPNAVINST 4000.79 guidance and the Naval Operational Capabilities (NOC) document, ensuring mission compatibility and effectiveness.

The program also funds the acquisition and support of the MK 160 Gun Computer System (GCS), which is essential for the operation of the MK 110 gun mounts on NSC and OPC platforms. The MK 160 GCS provides advanced fire control capabilities, enabling the planning and execution of surface threat engagements, including warning shots and disabling fire. This system is critical for achieving mission kill against a variety of threats. It is procured with associated production support, systems engineering, software, and test support to maintain up-to-date operational effectiveness.

Another significant portion of the Coast Guard Weapons line is dedicated to the MK 38 Machine Gun System (MGS), which is the primary armament for the Fast Response Cutter (FRC), Polar Security Cutter (PSC), and Medium Endurance Cutters (WMEC), as well as a secondary weapon for the OPC. The MK 38 Mod 3 and Mod 4 variants offer improved range, elevation, and targeting capabilities, including enhanced electro-optical sights and, in the case of Mod 4, counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) and counter-unmanned surface vessel (C-USV) features. The program also includes upgrades such as the 7.62mm MK 52 Mod 0 coaxial gun for anti-terrorism/force protection missions and the integration of C-UAS kits as needed.

The line item further supports the integration of gun weapon systems with the broader combat systems and sensors on all supported hull classes. This includes funding for the ATHENA Control, Correlation & Display (CCD) System, which provides target queuing for gun engagements, ensuring interoperability and effective engagement of threats. Integration efforts are essential for maintaining system compatibility across the National Security Cutter, Offshore Patrol Cutter, Polar Security Cutter, and Fast Response Cutter classes.

The Coast Guard Weapons program also emphasizes lifecycle support, including initial spares, recurring engineering, and logistics support for all procured systems. Funding adjustments in FY 2026 reflect the completion of certain ammunition updates and a reduction in machine gun system procurements, aligning with evolving operational requirements and efficiency initiatives. The program is structured to maintain commonality with future naval shipbuilding programs, supporting the long-term goal of a fully integrated National Fleet.