A Close-in weapon system (CIWS) is a naval shipboard point-defense weapon for detecting and destroying incoming anti-ship missiles and enemy aircraft at short range (the threat(s) having penetrated the fleet's available outer defenses). Typically, the acronym is pronounced sea-whiz.
A CIWS usually consists of a combination of radars, computers, and multiple rapid-fire medium-calibre guns placed on a rotating gun mount.
