7.2 "Dense Array" short-range weapon system
The Dense Array Short Range Weapon System (Phalanx CIWS) is a short-range defensive weapon system developed for the purpose of countering missiles and is widely used in surface combat ships at all levels of the United States Navy. It was first manufactured by General Dynamics and is currently manufactured by Raytheon.
Weapon Type: Short-range defense weapon system
Developers: General Dynamics, Raytheon
Service: 1980 to present
Loading platform: U.S. Navy multi-class surface vessels
Main structure
The principle of action of the "dense array" system is to pour out a large amount of ammunition in a short period of time after firing, and the missile calculated by the radar may form an extremely dense barrage on the path through which to achieve the purpose of intercepting and shooting down. The original Mk 15 Block 0 "Dense Array" system used six 76-caliber, nine right-handed rifled barrels of the M61A1 rotary cannon, using a 20 mm Mk 149 shell-piercing shell, and the latest Mk 15 Block 1B was replaced with the Mk 244 shell-piercing shell. The remote control console of the "dense array" system is set in the bridge, and each console can control up to four groups of dense array systems, which can carry out target distribution and monitoring. In addition, each set of "dense array" system has a separate local console, generally set in the seismic chamber near the "dense array" system, responsible for controlling the operation of the "dense array" system, which can be used as a backup when the remote control console fails.
Comprehensive performance
The "dense array" system is designed to be fully automatic, that is, after a given target data, it can rely entirely on the built-in radar search, tracking, target threat assessment, locking, and firing. The advantage of this design is that it is easy to install, the platform only needs to provide power, it can operate without integration with the ship's combat detection system, and the installation of the deck position ensures sufficient structural strength without having to dig holes in the deck. However, these characteristics of the "dense array" system are also its shortcomings, relying only on its own radar fire control system for engagement, and there is no synergy with other systems on the ship, which not only wastes more time at some times, but also increases the possibility of missing targets.
