“So how do they make it shoot downward? Why use a weapon they could NOT aim right?
Just makes NO sense. Besides the Phalanx is NOT installed on the newer ships despite what the Navies own site says.
So what now cowboy?”
How about educating the obviously ignorant? Block 1B Phalanx Surface Mode (PSUM) incorporates a side mounted Forward Looking Infrared Radar (FLIR) which enables CIWS to engage low slow or hovering aircraft and surface craft.
Further, they have thermal imager Automatic Acquisition Video Tracker (AAVT) and stablilization system that provide surface mode and electro-optic (EO) angle track. These Block 1B enhancements will allow day/night detection capability and enable the CIWS to engage small surface targets, slow-moving air targets, and helicopters.
Now that you are educated, you can say “thank you”.
No, go look it up. It is NOT designed to engage close in, SURGACE targets.
You can thank the Internet for setting you straight.
But still as I said most newer ships don't have it. If they do, why not just use something more appropriate like a 50 cal bmg?
Or do you just like saying Phalanx ‘cause it is a “cool sounding name.”
I bet you wanted to say they should use a MOAB?
Sheesh!
CIWS means CLOSE IN. Not sitting right under the railing (relatively). They are not in a helicopter or a plane.
Bainbridge does not have CIWS at all, let alone BLK 1B.
Thanks for educating this guy. I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a thousand times, “Research first... post later!”