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Meet the Navy's Close-In Weapon System
Published 3 years ago
What do you get when the A-10 Warthog calls up R2D2 from Star Wars for a bit of Netflix and Chill? The Close-in Weapon System, that's what you get.
The Phalanx Close-in Weapon System (CIWS) is a point-defense weapon system designed for detecting and destroying short-range incoming missiles and enemy aircraft. Usually mounted on naval vessels as a defense system, the Phalanx CIWS is capable of putting out 4,500 20mm rounds per minute at 3,600 feet per second, making it one of the most effective anti-missile systems in the arsenal of the U.S. Navy.
Coming into service in 1980, the CIWS has had many iterations and improvements over the years. Currently, it is capable of rotating 360 degrees, and can elevate between −25 and +85 degrees. It uses a combination of enhanced radar systems and computer targeting devices to track incoming targets, which it can eliminate with just a few short bursts of fire. Quick note, all of these specs are easily available on the internet. We are not violating opsec by posting this information.
If you've never seen one of these weapon systems operate in person, than you're truly missing out. The amount of firepower the CIWS adds to a ship's defensive capabilities is breathtaking.
