Geopolitics

Seafuture 2025 – ME 327 25x137 mm Proximity Rounds Prepared for Production

DEFCROS News

03 Oct 2025 — 2 min read

Resurgence of 25×137 mm Cannons: Reinventing Roles in Modern Warfare

Strategic Shift Toward 25 mm Ammunition

In recent decades, numerous military forces transitioned from utilizing 25×137 mm calibers to larger ordnance. However, new developments—including cost-effectiveness, availability, and innovative ammunition—are reviving interest in 25 mm cannons. Notably, the C-UAS (Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems) application has emerged as a prominent role for these weapons, thanks to advanced projectiles such as the MES327.

Innovations from MES

At the recent La Spezia exhibition, MES unveiled two significant advancements in the 25×137 mm segment: the ME 327 proximity round and the ME 329 impact round. The ME 327 is engineered to neutralize small to medium-sized drones—an increasing threat on modern battlefields.

Compatibility: The ME 327 can integrate seamlessly with existing cannon systems, including the Oerlikon KBA, showcased by Rheinmetall in its new CT-025 unmanned turret. Its double feed capability enhances the weapon’s operational versatility.

Proximity Fuze Technology

The ME 327 features high-explosive capabilities with an innovative proximity fuse.

Performance Specifications:
- Detection Range: Activates within 1 meter of a target.
- Weight: 185 grams.
- Effective Range: Approximately 3,000 meters.

This proximity fuse offers a critical advantage over programmable munitions, allowing it to be deployed by standard 25×137 mm systems without any modification.

Production Outlook

According to MES representatives, the ME 327 is projected for serial production by December 2025. The supply chain is in place, and the round has garnered significant interest, indicating strong market potential.

Production Capacity: Given the increasing trend in ammunition consumption, MES is exploring options to scale production capabilities. Enhancing staff for proximity fuse manufacturing is a key consideration, though personnel training is not expected to present major challenges.

Tactical Implications

The ME 327’s combination of a proximity fuse, a muzzle velocity exceeding 1,200 m/s, and a significant effective range positions it as a formidable asset against small and mini UAVs. This advancement provides an additional layer of defense, addressing one of the emerging threats to armored vehicles on the battlefield.

Visual Reference: A selection of images from P. Valpolini illustrating MES’s latest 25 mm ammunition developments underscores the technological innovations that are reshaping defense strategies.

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