5"54 MK 42 GUN SYSTEM

The 5"54 MK 42 MOD 10 fires a 5-inch shell that measure approximately 127mm in diameter. It consists of two component groups: the lower structure (below deck) and the upper structure (above deck). Lower structure components include the carrier, lower hoist and ammunition loader drums. These components provide an uninterrupted flow of ammunition. The upper structure components include the upper hoist, transfer trays, rammer and the components used to fire the gun. They also aim the gun and eject the empty powder cases from the gun. The MK 42 gun was designed by FMC corporation and is now maintained in many foreign Navies by United Defense Corporation. It was the last major caliber gun system with the ability to be fired from local control by an operator in the gun mount.