Monday, September 14, 2009

USS Ingraham Gets New Close-In Defense Weapon

USS Ingraham (FFG 61) is the first US Navy frigate to receive the new MK38 MOD II 25mm chain gun.

It uses a state-of-the-art electro-optical sight which enables the operators to see tracks more than 10,000 yards out, and uses a laser range-finder to measure the distance to a target.

The gun's mount is controlled in Ingraham's Combat Information Center (CIC) by the Remote Operator Console (ROC). The gunner sits at the ROC and tracks incoming vessels using the video from the mount. "The system is able to auto-track the oncoming vessel until the tactical action officer gives the gunner orders on the deployment of warning shots or direct fire," said the Ingraham's Assistant Combat Systems Officer, Ensign Brandon Gilstrap.

This system enables Ingraham to defend the ship more effectively even with reduced manpower.

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