Bofors guns arm Belgian-Dutch MCMVs

New mine countermeasures vessels (MCMVs) being procured jointly by Belgium and the Netherlands will be armed with the Bofors Mk4 40mm naval gun from BAE Systems, under a contract worth an undisclosed amount.

Kership will install a total of 12 guns (one for each of the 12 MCMVs — six each for the Belgian and Dutch navies).

The first MCMV will be delivered to the Belgian Navy in 2024, with all deliveries to be completed for both navies by 2030.

The Bofors Mk4 is already in service with ten other navies worldwide, according to Shephard Defence Insight. The gun features a 40 mm L/70 gun with a 300 rounds/min rate of fire, 100-round magazines and airburst capability. Its elevation ranges from -20 degrees to +80 degrees.

Furthermore, the Bofors 40 Mk4 is equipped with computer-controlled burst pattern, on-mount muzzle velocity radar and remote operation option. The 3P ammunition is programmable to be optimised against a range of targets, including UAVs.

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Related Programmes in Defence Insight

Tripartite Class Replacement Programme [Netherlands]

Tripartite Class Replacement Programme (1-6) [Belgium]

Related Equipment in Defence Insight

Bofors 40 mk4