U.S. Navy Awarded $197 Million Contract for Gun Mounts
The service secured new 30mm deck gun systems to replace older models that struggled to counter modern drone threats.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Military
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The U.S. Navy has finalized a $197 million contract with MSI Defence Systems to acquire 30mm MK 38 MOD 4 gun mounts and electro-optical sights. This new hardware is set to replace existing 25mm systems that failed to meet requirements for neutralizing drone threats.
Why it matters
The upgrade is intended to bolster ship defenses against evolving aerial threats like drones. By transitioning to the 30mm MK44 Bushmaster II cannon, the Navy aims to enhance its maritime security capabilities on Arleigh Burke-class destroyers.
The contract covers the procurement of MK88 MOD4 mounts and MK48 MOD2 electro-optical sights. The new mounts hold 400 rounds in dual ammunition bins, with 73% of the production work slated for Norfolk, England.
The players
U.S. Navy
The maritime branch of the United States Armed Forces responsible for naval warfare and operations.
MSI Defence Systems
A defense contractor specializing in the design and manufacture of naval gun systems and weapon mounts.
Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head Division
The Navy command responsible for ordnance and explosive research, development, and procurement.
The details
The system utilizes an independent camera sight that tracks targets and feeds aiming data directly to the cannon. Awarded without competition under an other transaction agreement, the deal involves production sites in Maryland, South Carolina, Montana, and Pennsylvania.
Timeline
September 2023: MSI received $23.5 million for 15 mounts.
April 2024: The USS Mustin received the first system installation.
Late 2025: MSI received $34.5 million for 18 mounts.
January 2031: Final contract deliveries are scheduled to conclude.
Political Context
Opponents of non-competitive defense awards often argue that using other transaction agreements reduces transparency and limits small business participation in the procurement process. This contract follows the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer modernization program, marking a continued investment in existing naval platforms rather than solely relying on new vessel classes.
While this contract involves military hardware procurement, it reflects a shift in national defense spending priorities toward addressing drone vulnerabilities. Taxpayers will see this investment reflected in the long-term maintenance and upgrade cycles for the naval fleet through 2031.
The takeaway
The move to replace 25mm cannons with more capable 30mm systems highlights the rapid adaptation required to combat modern drone warfare. This transition underscores the military focus on upgrading defensive capabilities to protect existing naval assets.
Further reading
For more information on ongoing defense procurement, visit Military.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Defence Blog.
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