LONDON — Diehl Defence and BAE Systems have expanded their cooperation to develop joint maritime defence solutions for the German market and international armed forces, following the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) covering technical integration across both companies' defence portfolios.
The collaboration will primarily focus on integrating Diehl Defence's 127 mm (5-inch) ammunition family with BAE Systems' Mk 45 naval gun. The companies are giving particular attention to the Mk 45 Mod 4 variant, which is intended for both German and international customers. Under the cooperation, the Mk 45 naval gun will be combined with Diehl Defence's high-precision, long-range 127 mm ammunition.
BAE Systems is one of the world's major suppliers of 127 mm naval gun systems and provides defence, aerospace and security technologies. The Mk 45 is a widely used 5-inch naval gun system operated by several navies. The Mk 45 Mod 4 version features a longer 62-calibre barrel and is designed to support extended-range capabilities.
In addition to naval gun integration, the companies will expand their cooperation in guided missile systems. Diehl Defence and BAE Systems will examine the potential integration of the IRIS-T missile family with BAE Systems' launching systems as part of the technical work covered by the agreement.
Dr. Harald Buschek, Chief Program Officer at Diehl Defence, said the partnership is intended to deliver tailored maritime defence solutions by combining the strengths of both companies.
"By working together to explore these technical synergies, we can develop customized solutions for our customers' complex maritime defence requirements. By combining our systems with BAE Systems' platforms, we can enhance the effectiveness and operational capability of maritime defence systems."
Jason Casciotti, Vice President of Weapons Systems at BAE Systems, said the cooperation reflects the company's commitment to supporting allied nations through long-term industrial partnerships.
"Our collaboration with Diehl Defence builds on BAE Systems' commitment to meeting the needs of our allies through strong local strategic relationships. We are investing in more than just military equipment; we are investing in German defence and local economic growth. Advanced firepower will continue to play a critical role at sea and by combining our battle-tested capabilities, we are focused on delivering superior, integrated solutions that provide the best possible capabilities for the US and its allies."
The cooperation brings together Diehl Defence's ammunition and missile technologies with BAE Systems' naval weapons portfolio. According to the companies, the next phase of the partnership will focus on advancing the technical work required for the proposed integrations.
The announcement was published by Diehl Defence on August 3, 2026.
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