Various defense companies have been offering modular weapon systems for commercial ships that can help reduce aerial threats and increase safety on hazardous routes. Given the rise in aerial and maritime attacks, these systems have been proposed as a solution to counter new threats.
Introduction of Modular Weapon Systems
At this year's Euronaval exhibition, two companies, BAE Systems and Aselsan, introduced modular weapon systems for installation on commercial ships. These units are derived from standard naval air defense systems and have been tested to counter various threats.
Commercial ships are typically unarmed during peacetime due to legal reasons and customs issues. However, in times of war, commercial ships can employ weapons and face threats at sea. Companies like Aselsan and BAE Systems have recognized this need and provided solutions for the installation of defensive weapons.
Details of Air Defense Systems
Aselsan has introduced the Gokdeniz system for the civilian market, which is designed based on the Korkut anti-aircraft gun and can quickly respond to aerial threats. This system features a dual-barrel 35mm gun that can fire up to 1,100 rounds per minute and is effective against aerial and maritime threats.
Meanwhile, BAE Systems has also introduced a 40mm Bofors gun with air ammunition that is designed for easy installation in a containerized configuration. This system can be transformed into a complete weapon system and uses programmable ammunition that can be specifically tailored for each target.
Given the historical background and past experiences, the use of armed commercial ships during wartime has become a common practice. In the Black Sea and the Strait of Hormuz, commercial ships are targeted in the same way that warships are. This approach allows defense companies to consider a new market for defensive weapons.
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