A close-in weapon system (CIWS / ˈsiːwɪz / SEE-wiz) [1] is a point-defense weapon system for detecting and destroying short-range incoming missiles and enemy aircraft which have penetrated the outer …

Sep 20, 2021 · Features MK 15 Phalanx CIWS provides ships of the U.S. Navy with an inner layer point defense capability against anti-ship missiles (ASM), aircraft and littoral warfare threats that have...

Dec 5, 2025 · The Phalanx CIWS (Close-In Weapon System) is the last line of defense, designed to shoot down missiles, drones, and aircraft before they hit.

The Phalanx Close-In Weapon System (CIWS) defends navy ships against a variety of anti-ship threats.

Background: The Phalanx Close-In Weapons System (CIWS) underwent operational tests and evaluation onboard USS Bigelow in 1977, and exceeded maintenance and reliability specifications.

At sea, navies use the Phalanx weapon system to defeat anti-ship missiles and close-in threats that have pierced other lines of defense. On land, the U.S. Army uses it to detect and counter rocket, …

Jan 9, 2003 · The unique closed-loop fire control system that tracks both the incoming target and the stream of outgoing projectiles (by monitoring their incoming noise signature) gives CIWS the …

Jul 7, 2011 · The MK 15 Phalanx Close-In Weapons System (CIWS - pronounced "sea-whiz") is a fast-reaction, rapid-fire 20-millimeter gun system that provides US Navy ships with a terminal defense …

The MK-15 Phalanx CIWS provides ships of the U.S. Navy with an inner layer point defense capability against Anti Ship Missiles, aircraft, and littoral warfare threats that have penetrated other...

The CIWS is designed to be the last line of defense against anti-ship missiles. Due to its design criteria, its effective range is very short relative to the range of modern ASMs, from 1 to 5 nautical miles (2 to …