CIWS (Close-In Weapons System)

A close-in weapon system (CIWS) is a ship’s last-ditch, short-range defense against anti-ship missiles and aircraft that have penetrated outer layers, built around a rapid-firing gun or short-range missiles with self-contained search and tracking radar. The gun type, exemplified by the US 20 mm Phalanx and the Dutch 30 mm Goalkeeper, automatically detects, tracks, and engages a closing threat. Missile CIWS such as RAM (RIM-116) extend the engagement envelope. CIWS sits at the inner edge of layered, defense-in-depth air defense.