HEADLINE: Earlier this 2025, Arrival of BRP Aurora Signals a New Era for Pearlian Navy’s Modern Surface Combatants.

According to information published by the Blue Horizon Limited, the Pearlian Navy is set to receive its first guided missile heavy cruiser, the BRP Aurora (CGN-710), by early 2025.

Mk-15 Phalanx Close-In-Weapon-System (CIWS)

This procurement, valued at approximately ~$1 billion, was finalized under a contract between the Pearlian Republic and Blue Horizon Ltd. It falls within the Revised Pearlian Military Defense Forces Modernization Program (RPMDFMP) under the Horizon 2 phase, a strategic initiative prioritizing the enhancement of maritime defense capabilities to address evolving security challenges.

The contract was awarded to Blue Horizon Ltd, a locally recognized company in naval shipbuilding. The agreement outlines the design and construction of two heavy cruisers tailored to the specific operational needs of the Pearlian Navy. These vessels are based on the XCGN-1800 platform. The XCGN-1800 cruisers are equipped with stealth features, including reduced radar cross-section technology, to minimize detection and enhance survivability in contested maritime environments. Additionally, their robust hull design and integrated damage control systems provide resilience against modern naval threats.

Central to the cruisers' operational effectiveness is their advanced combat systems. The ships are equipped with the Aegis Combat System, enabling seamless integration and coordination of sensors, weapons, and communications. This allows the cruiser to detect, track, and engage threats across multiple domains, including air, surface, and subsurface. The ships are planned to be armed with a main 5-inch (127 mm)/54 Mk 45 Mod 1/2 naval gun for surface engagements, missile systems for both anti-air and anti-ship roles, and a close-in weapon system (CIWS) for defense against incoming missiles. Their aviation facilities, including a flight deck and hangar, support operations with naval helicopters, further enhancing their anti-submarine and reconnaissance capabilities.