Diehl Defence and BAE Systems have entered into a strategic agreement aimed at expanding the combat capabilities of naval forces by integrating Vulcano long-range precision-guided ammunition with the widely deployed Mk 45 Mod 4 naval gun. This upgrade is expected to increase the weapon’s engagement range from roughly 36 kilometers to nearly 100 kilometers, allowing warships to engage targets far deeper inland with greater precision. Since the Mk 45 equips more than 200 vessels operated by numerous allied navies, the integration could significantly expand the operational reach of existing fleets. Previously associated mainly with Leonardo’s 127/64 Lightweight gun system, Vulcano ammunition will now become accessible to a much wider customer base. Beyond naval artillery, the agreement also includes plans to investigate compatibility between Diehl Defence’s IRIS-T missile family and BAE Systems’ naval launch systems. The initiative builds upon successful demonstrations of naval IRIS-T technology aboard a German Type 125 frigate, highlighting future opportunities to strengthen maritime air defense capabilities.
