How BAE Systems is bringing modularity to modern naval defence

Published
2026-11-03T16:51:45.919+01:00 03 November 2026
Business BAE Systems Bofors
Scalable Maritime Protection
Scalable Maritime Protection
The Modular 40 mm naval gun system family combines proven Bofors 40 mm firepower, programmable 3P ammunition and scalable fire-control solutions to deliver tailored protection across a wide range of naval platforms and operational requirements.

Modern naval operators face an increasingly complex threat environment. Drones, loitering munitions, anti-ship missiles and fast attack craft are driving demand for protection solutions that are both effective and adaptable.

To meet these evolving requirements, BAE Systems is introducing the modular 40 mm naval gun system suite, a scalable portfolio of naval protection solutions built on proven Bofors 40 mm technology and programmable 3P ammunition.

Designed around a common technology foundation, the suite enables operators to select the capability that best matches their mission requirements while benefiting from shared training, support, maintenance and ammunition solutions.

A scalable approach to naval protection

The modular 40 mm naval gun system family spans four capability levels, from compact multi role naval guns to advanced close-in defence solutions.

At its foundation is the Bofors 40 Mk4 naval gun, providing compact, flexible and combat-proven firepower for a wide range of naval platforms.

Building on that foundation, Sea Tridon combines proven Bofors 40 mm performance with integrated electro-optical fire control, enabling greater operational independence while simplifying platform integration.

For operators requiring rapidly deployable capability, Sea TridonC (containerized) extends the concept through a containerized solution that can be installed with minimal platform modification and tailored to mission-specific requirements.

At the highest capability level, Sea Trinity combines advanced fire control, integrated radar capability and programmable ammunition in a highly capable close-in defence solution designed to counter modern aerial threats.

Built for today's threats

Across the portfolio, operators benefit from the proven combination of Bofors 40 mm firepower and programmable 3P ammunition.

Together they provide the flexibility to counter a broad range of threats, including drones, loitering munitions, aircraft, missiles and surface targets, while maintaining the range, precision and target effect required for modern naval operations.

Commonality that creates value

While each solution is tailored for different operational requirements, all members of the family share a common technology foundation. This simplifies training, maintenance and logistics while reducing lifecycle costs and supporting long-term operational readiness.

For operators looking to modernize existing fleets or introduce new capability, the result is a scalable family of solutions that can grow alongside evolving requirements.

Ready for today's missions. Prepared for tomorrow's challenges.

The modular 40 mm naval gun system reflects nearly a century of BAE Systems innovation and experience. Whether the requirement is a compact naval gun, an independently operated protection solution, a containerized capability or an advanced close-in defence system, operators can select the solution that best fits their mission while benefitting from a proven and shared foundation.