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Caption:
At sea aboard USS Rainer (AOE 7) Feb. 13, 2003 -- The Phalanx Close-In
Weapon System (CIWS) is a rapid-fire, computer-controlled, radar-guided
gun system designed to defeat anti-ship missiles and other close-in air
and surface threats. The system employs a pneumatically driven 20 mm
Gatling gun with a fire rate of 4500 rounds per minute, and
closed-loop-spotting radar technology to engage threats. The CIWS fires
more than 3,000 rounds per minute during live-fire exercises. These
exercises are designed to make sure the weapons fire properly.
Rainer is conducting operations in support of U.S. interests in the
Central Command's Area of Responsibility. U.S. Navy photo by
Chief Fire Controlman Brian Kirkwood. (RELEASED)
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