BAE, Leonardo partner on precision-guided munitions
BAE Systems and Leonardo are partnering to develop new precision-guided munitions for use with large-calibre weapon systems, BAE Systems announced on 28 June.
The programme will focus on adaptations and derivatives of Leonardo’s current Vulcano line of precision-guided artillery ammunition.
The new munitions would be used in a variety of gun systems, including the standard MK-45 naval gun and the BAE Advanced Gun System.
In addition to naval guns, the programme will also focus on providing improved ranges for ground-based 155mm artillery systems, including all variants of the M777 and M109 howitzers used by the US and its allies.
During testing, the 155mm Vulcano has achieved launch accelerations that support maximum engagement ranges similar to distances required for the former Long Range Land Attack Projectile programme. The Mk 45 naval gun provides the potential to fire the five-inch Vulcano at 20 rounds per minute to a maximum range over three times greater than existing munitions.
Joe Senftle, VP and general manager of Weapon Systems at BAE Systems, said: ‘As a leading global provider and integrator of all major calibre weapon systems, we are expertly positioned to integrate mission-driven, advanced and affordable munitions like Vulcano into land and naval gun systems’.
The companies will also look to offer an enhanced guidance and navigation unit, including semi-active laser and infrared seeker options designed to ensure pinpoint accuracy and provide moving-target capability to address air-, land- and sea-based threats from land and naval weapons.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Eurosatory 2026: Schiebel’s frigate-first strategy indicates a shift in UAV competition]()
Eurosatory 2026: Schiebel’s frigate-first strategy indicates a shift in UAV competition
Schiebel is pursuing opportunities in the UK and France while leveraging its integration with Naval Group’s FDI frigate programme to create new naval business across Europe.
-
![US weighs offshore warship production due to industrial limits]()
US weighs offshore warship production due to industrial limits
A Pentagon push to procure warships from Japanese and South Korean shipyards could reshape allied naval industrial strategy, but critics warn the approach risks hollowing out the domestic base Washington is seeking to restore.
-
![Lessons shaping the next phase of Arleigh Burke production post-Flight IIA]()
Lessons shaping the next phase of Arleigh Burke production post-Flight IIA
The accelerated delivery of the final Flight IIA destroyer, USS Patrick Gallagher, showcases the payoff of years of workforce investment and process reform at Bath Iron Works, with the lessons feeding into Flight III production.
