ERMAKSAN has begun the serial production of the THUNDERBOLT 40/70 T 40 mm L70 dual-purpose naval gun with a low RCS cupola, to be present at SAHA EXPO 2026.
ERMAKSAN, nearing completion of the THUNDERBOLT 40/70 T dual-purpose naval gun system featuring twin 40 mm autocannons, has launched the serial production following successful firing tests.
The firm will display THUNDERBOLT 40/70 T and other weapon systems at the SAHA EXPO 2026 defence exhibition to be held next week. In the previous SAHA EXPO, ERMAKSAN unveiled the THUNDERBOLT 40/70 SB naval gun as a single-barreled and non-deck penetrating alternative for smaller platforms, including trucks.
ERMAKSAN’s dual-purpose naval gun is expected to succeed the Italian DARDO 40 mm naval guns serving the same role, but with a composite cupola with low RCS design and openness to modifications. Currently, the Turkish Navy fields 40 mm dual-purpose guns onboard Kılıç-class FACs and Tuzla-class patrol vessels.
Compared to 35 mm CIWS/dual-purpose guns, 40 mm guns offer more punch per round and considerably longer range thanks to high muzzle velocity and better ballistic performance. 40 mm guns have been recently revisited for their potential in C-UAS and point defence if fitted with proximity or airburst ammunition, thanks to the range and payload advantages. BAE Systems’ Tridon Mk2, as a ground-based development of the Bofors Mk4 normally used on naval platforms, can be given as a good example when it comes to the exploration of this performance.
Author: Kaan Azman
Editor:Özgür Ekşi
