UK’s Fleet Solid Support ship programme deemed on track despite steel supply concerns
Shipbuilders are saying the programme is going ahead on time as the government estimates 7.7 million tonnes of steel are needed for 2026 infrastructure projects.
Leonardo has received a contract to provide seven OTO 76/62 Super Rapid (SR) gun mount systems for the German Navy’s new K130 corvettes.
The contract, signed with the German Federal Office in charge of defence acquisitions, also includes training and spare parts supply.
The German Navy has already tested the capabilities of the compact version of the system, integrated on the first batch of corvettes.
The lightweight OTO 76/62 SR system is a medium-calibre weapon capable of sustaining a fire rate of up to 120 strokes per minute. Depending on the configuration, the OTO 76/62 SR can also include the Strales capability to fire DART guided ammunition specifically designed for the engagement of fast manoeuvring targets, the Vulcano GPS-guided long-range ammunition able to engage targets accurately as well as the multi feeding device for ammunition automatic handling.
The system is designed for anti-aircraft and anti-missile defence and for point defence. It can be integrated on any type and class of ship, including smaller units.
Shipbuilders are saying the programme is going ahead on time as the government estimates 7.7 million tonnes of steel are needed for 2026 infrastructure projects.
In an exclusive interview with Shephard, Raytheon’s VP of Shipboard Missiles disclosed what improvements the company plans to offer for the Sea Sparrow NSV.
Delays in the construction of the Polar Security Cutter – the future substitute for the Polar Star – are likely to prolong the ageing icebreaker’s service time even more, putting the USCG in a risky position.
The adaptable design of Babcock’s Arrowhead 140 frigate, already selected by the UK Royal Navy and Poland, has led to more orders from Indonesia while other countries continue to weigh it up.
The presence of the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group in the Persian Gulf means additional naval and aerial capabilities, which provides the US with multiple attacking options.
The US Navy’s acceleration of its laser weapon development initiatives reflects a decisive shift towards ultimately having a “laser on every ship” across tomorrow’s surface fleet.