BAE Systems has begun integrating the Mk 45 naval gun system onto HMS Glasgow, the first of eight Type 26 frigates being built for the Royal Navy. This is the first installation of both the system and its Ammunition Handling System (AHS) on a frigate of this type, and represents “a major milestone for the programme, with installations planned for all ships in the class", the company said in a statement.

“The integration of the Mk 45 AHS onto HMS Glasgow provides an important foundation in firepower and ammunition readiness for the Royal Navy’s Type 26 frigates", said Brent Butcher, Vice President, Weapon Systems, BAE Systems. The Mk 45 system combines the Mk 45 Mod 4A 5-inch, 62-calibre naval gun with a fully automated AHS. The AHS automatically reloads the Mk 45 gun in all sea conditions, increasing crew safety, reducing crew requirements and providing reliable reloading performance. “This means the Mk 45 AHS can handle all 5-inch ammunition currently in service", the statement continued.

In February 2023, BAE Systems was awarded a USD 219 million contract to equip a new batch of Type 26 frigates of the Royal Navy, with Mk 45 and AHS armament. The system has also been selected by the Australian Navy for its Hunter Class frigates, based on the Type 26 design. Both engineering and program support are being developed at BAE Systems’ facility in Minneapolis, Minnesota; manufacturing takes place at BAE Systems’ facility in Louisville, Kentucky.