The Phalanx CIWS is an automated gun-based close-in weapon system to defend military watercraft automatically against incoming threats such as aircraft, missiles, and small boats. It was designed and manufactured by the General Dynamics Corporation, Pomona Division, later a part of Raytheon. Consisting of a radar-guided 20 mm (0.8 in) Vulcan cannon mounted on a swiveling base, the Phalanx has been used by the United States Navy and the naval forces of 15 other countries. The U.S. Navy deploys it on every class of surface combat ship, except the Zumwalt-class destroyer and San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock. Other users include the British Royal Navy, the Royal Australian Navy, the Royal New Zealand Navy, the Royal Canadian Navy, and the U.S. Coast Guard.
Phalanx CIWS aboard USS Jason Dunham.
The Phalanx prototype on USS King in 1973.
Rounds from a Mk-15 Phalanx CIWS on USS Mitscher hit ex-USNS Saturn during a sinking exercise
A technician checks the radar transmitter and microwave assemblies of a Phalanx CIWS In the background, the search radar is at the top left with the vertical, tracking radar below it.
A close-in weapon system is a point-defense weapon system for detecting and destroying short-range incoming missiles and enemy aircraft which have penetrated the outer defenses, typically mounted on a naval ship. Nearly all classes of larger modern warships are equipped with some kind of CIWS device.
Kashtan CIWS
Phalanx CIWS and Aselsan STOP aboard the TCG ship Anadolu
Image: Goalkeeper CIWS Gun Opens Fire During Exercise at Sea MOD 45151583
Image: Кортик на корвете Стерегущий