Rafael wins Asian maintenance contract for Typhoon and Naval Spike.

According to a PR published by Rafael on August 9, 2023, the Israeli company has secured a contract to offer extensive maintenance support services to an Asian Navy.
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Artist rendering of the Shaldag MK II fast patrol craft armed with Typhoon Weapon Station. (Picture source: Rafael)

The Typhoon, designed by Israel's Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, is a remote weapon station. Its design fundamentals and technologies align closely with the land-based Samson Remote Controlled Weapon Station, also crafted by Rafael. The adaptability of the Typhoon is showcased in its diverse configurations.

The Typhoon, along with its lightweight counterpart, the Mini Typhoon, equip navies worldwide. These include the Israeli, Indian, Philippine, Australian, New Zealand, Singaporean, and Sri Lankan navies, as well as Singapore's Police Coast Guard.

Debuting in 1997 with the Mk-23, the Typhoon's key attribute is its stability. The weapon stays on target due to its stabilized deck mount, even if the platform beneath is moving. Such stability enables the system to maintain weapon accuracy within 250 mm for targets at a distance of 1,000 meters.

One of Typhoon's advantages is its non-penetrative mounting, simplifying its integration onto ships. It can operate autonomously, leveraging integrated sights or external systems like an Electro-Optical Detector (EOD) or Fire Control Radar (FCR).

The Typhoon system can support a variety of cannon models ranging from 20–30 mm calibers, carrying between 160 and 210 rounds, contingent on the caliber. Its operational versatility is evident in its broad traverse and elevation range. The entire system weighs around 690 to 750 kg without ammo, depending on configurations. As of 2006, over 120 Typhoon systems were reportedly commissioned.

Mini Typhoon

The Mini Typhoon, inspired by its parent system, is a lightweight variant. Depending on user needs, it can house a 12.7 mm machine gun, a 7.62 mm machine gun, or a 40 mm grenade launcher, supporting up to 230 rounds.

This streamlined system, weighing 140 to 170 kg, can be mounted seamlessly without any structural ship deck alterations. Additionally, the Mini Typhoon is integrated into the Protector USV as the Mk49 Mod 0.