Modular Gun Systems Could Help Protect Merchant Ships from Drone Attacks
As drone and missile attacks continue to threaten commercial shipping, defense companies are developing new weapon systems that could help merchant ships defend themselves against aerial and surface threats.
Commercial shipping companies are facing growing risks when operating in dangerous waters. In areas such as the Black Sea and the Strait of Hormuz, merchant vessels have become targets of drone and missile attacks.
For some shipowners, these attacks have become an accepted risk of operating on high-revenue shipping routes. However, the consequences can be serious, including damaged ships, interrupted operations and injuries or deaths among crew members.
Now, defense companies are looking at another option: installing defensive weapon systems directly onto commercial ships.
New weapon systems for merchant vessels
At this year's Euronaval exhibition, two major defense companies, BAE Systems and Aselsan, presented modular gun systems designed for installation on merchant ships.
Both systems are based on existing naval weapons commonly used by NATO warships. The technology has already been developed for military use, but the companies are now looking at how it could also protect commercial vessels.
Aselsan is promoting its Gökdeniz air defense system, which is based on the company's Korkut ground-based anti-aircraft cannon.
The system features two 35mm cannons capable of firing up to 1,100 rounds per minute. It uses special proximity-burst ammunition that explodes near incoming targets, sending fragments into their path.
Gökdeniz is designed to defend against aircraft and helicopters. Its guns can also be lowered to engage surface targets, including unmanned attack boats. The complete installation consists of a modular turret and a separate container holding the supporting equipment.
BAE Systems is offering a similar concept using its 40mm Bofors gun. The weapon is designed to use airburst ammunition and can be installed in a containerized configuration, making it easier to place aboard commercial vessels.
An upgraded version would also include an integrated fire-control radar, allowing the system to operate as a complete close-in defense system.
BAE also highlights its programmable ammunition, which can be set to one of six different modes depending on the target.
Why aren't merchant ships already armed?
Although these systems could offer additional protection, installing weapons on commercial ships is not without problems.
Merchant vessels are generally unarmed during peacetime. Carrying weapons can create difficulties when entering foreign ports, as countries have different customs rules and regulations regarding firearms.
This can lead to legal problems for both shipowners and crew members.
When armed security is needed, the usual practice is to bring security personnel and their weapons aboard at sea and have them leave before the vessel enters port.
However, the situation is different during wartime. Armed merchant ships have a long history, and commercial vessels operating in areas such as the Black Sea and Strait of Hormuz are already facing attacks similar to those directed at military ships.
For companies operating regularly in these high-risk areas, permanent defensive systems could become a more attractive option.
China is also exploring the concept
The idea of installing military equipment on merchant ships is not entirely new.
China's military has tested modular air defense systems aboard commercial vessels. These tests have reportedly included equipment ranging from defensive weapons to advanced air defense missile launch modules.
Some of these systems provide capabilities normally associated with warships and go far beyond what would be needed to defend a merchant vessel against smaller asymmetric threats.
A new approach to protecting commercial shipping?
Modular gun and missile systems could offer shipowners another way to protect their vessels when travelling through dangerous waters.
There are still legal, financial and practical challenges to consider, especially when it comes to carrying weapons into foreign ports.
However, as drone and missile attacks continue to threaten commercial shipping, the interest in onboard defensive systems is growing.
For shipowners operating on some of the world's most dangerous shipping routes, installing a modular defense system could eventually become an alternative to simply accepting the risk of being hit.
Original post: https://maritime-executive.com/article/modular-gun-systems-might-make-hormuz-drone-damage-optional