1 definition by MArk t3h Great
A 20mm 6 barreled anti-missile CIWS (close-in weapons system) mounted on aircraft carriers and other ships. Designed to be a point defense system, it is the first effective design able to shoot down most anti-ship missiles, including High-g Maneuvering sea skimmer missiles. It's six barreled Vulcan cannon can fire at about 4,500 rounds per minute, creating a virtual wall of lead in front of the enemy missile.
The ship seemed doomed, but the phalanx system came online just in time to shoot down the anti-ship missiles.
by MArk t3h Great April 27, 2007