U.S. Navy Expands 30mm Anti-Drone Gun Fleet to Strengthen Warship Close-In Defense

The U.S. Navy has awarded MSI Defense Systems USA a first-year $61.3 million order for twenty-two Mk 88 Mod 4 gun mounts and twenty-three Mk 48 Mod 2 electro-optical sights. The three-year arrangement could reach $197 million, with deliveries continuing through January 2031, and expands purchases for the Mk 38 Mod 4 naval gun system to fifty-five mounts. The system uses a 30 mm Mk 44 Bushmaster II cannon with dual-feed ammunition and airburst capability, replacing the earlier 25 mm configuration. Stabilised thermal and optical sensing, laser ranging and combat-system cueing support engagements against drones and other close-range threats.