BAE Systems secures contract for Bofors 40 Mk4 Naval Gun on Colombian Navy Frigate
- Modern Mechanics Editor
- Apr 2
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 3
BAE Systems has been awarded a contract by Damen Naval to supply a Bofors 40 Mk4 naval gun system for the Colombian Navy’s PES frigate, a SIGMA-class vessel designed by Damen Naval. The system will be used for both anti-aircraft and anti-surface operations.
Since 2015, over 70 units of the Bofors 40 Mk4 have been sold across eight countries. Colombia is now the second nation in Latin America to adopt this advanced naval gun, following Brazil, which has selected it as the standard primary weapon for small- to medium-sized ships.
“We continue to be a trusted partner in Latin America, delivering world-class capabilities that support regional defense growth,” said Stefan Löfström, Marketing & Sales Director at BAE Systems Bofors. “Our solutions provide cutting-edge firepower and rapid response—key requirements for the Colombian Navy.”
The Bofors 40 Mk4 is a lightweight and compact naval gun designed for engaging both aerial and surface threats. Its ability to swiftly switch between ammunition types enhances its effectiveness against air, land, and sea-based targets.
The system is equipped with programmable 40mm Bofors 3P ammunition, which offers six different function modes for optimized combat performance. Combining the reliability of the 40mm gun with advanced munitions technology, this system ensures readiness for both expected and unforeseen threats.
Jasper Oreel, Project Director at Damen Naval, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration: “Damen Naval is pleased that BAE Systems Bofors is contributing to the enhanced combat capabilities of the SIGMA 10514-based PES frigate with their Bofors 40 Mk4. As this marks the first direct procurement contract between our companies, we look forward to strengthening our partnership and successfully executing the PES project.”
The Bofors 40 Mk4 is scheduled for installation on the PES frigate in 2029.
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