New naval guns bring advanced firepower to two allied European navies
BAE Systems has signed a contract with the Dutch Material and IT Command (COMMIT) to supply eight Bofors 40Mk4 naval gun systems to the navies of the Netherlands and Belgium.
This agreement is part of the anti-submarine warfare frigate program, a joint venture between the navies of the two countries, which includes the delivery of two frigates and two naval weapons systems per vessel.
The Bofors 40Mk4 is a compact and lightweight naval gun system designed for anti-aircraft and anti-surface warfare operations. It allows fluid exchange between different types of ammunition, providing versatile targeting against air, land and sea threats.
The 40 mm Bofors 3P programmable ammunition gives the system maximum combat flexibility and can be programmed in six different modes to optimize its effect. Combining the proven 40 mm Bofors cannon with the latest 3P ammunition technology, this platform is ready to face both expected and unexpected challenges.
“This important milestone will ensure that the new frigates have the cutting-edge capabilities they need, especially with the addition of our advanced 3P ammunition,” said Stefan Löfström, sales and marketing director at BAE Systems Bofors. “BAE Systems continues to support our NATO allies by offering enhanced capabilities to help maintain security in Europe.”
The contract covers installation, training, documentation, spare parts and tools, as well as the option of 3P programmable ammunition and additional weapons for training. The first cannon is scheduled for delivery in 2026.