The Royal Australian Navy’s latest upgrade of the Mark 15 Phalanx close-in weapon system (CIWS) has achieved initial operating capability, Australian defense ministry announced on Monday.
The upgraded Phalanx is being progressively rolled out until late 2023 across the navy’s fleet of destroyers, amphibious ships and new Supply-class tankers.
“The first system, which incorporates the upgrade to Block 1B Baseline 2 of the Phalanx system, has already been installed into [air warfare destroyer] HMAS Sydney which will ensure she enters service as Australia’s most potent and capable warship,” Australian defense minister Linda Reynolds said.
“The system significantly boosts HMAS Sydney’s self defense capability, providing new generation technology to Navy vessels and ensuring the highest levels of protection from modern systems.
The second unit of the upgraded system was delivered in 2019 and will be used to provide training in Australia, supported by local industry and increasing self-reliance in the training pipeline, the defense ministry added.
