MK
41 VLS
Unofficial
names/slang: n/a
Function:
Guided missile launching system
Contractor:
Lockheed Martin |
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The VLS is a
multi-purpose launching system that can load,
stow,select, prepare for launch, and launch the
Standard Missile Type 2 (SM-2), Tomahawk cruise
missiles, and vertical launch anti-submarine rocket
(ASROC VLA) against air, surface, land, or
subsurface targets.
The missiles are contained in separate sealed
canisters that are installed vertically below deck
in individual cells of a vertical launcher. The MK
41 MOD 0 VLS on Ticonderoga class cruisers (CG 52
and follow) have a forward and aft launcher with 61
cells in each. The MK 41 MOD 1 VLS on DD 963 class
ships has a single, forward 61 cell launcher. The MK
41 MOD 2 VLS on DDG 51 class ships has an aft
launcher with 61 cells and a forward launcher with
29 cells.
There are two types of launchers associated
with the VLS - The MK 158 MOD 0, which is a 61 cell
launcher, and the MK 159 MOD 0, which is a 29 cell
launcher. The launchers are housed in water-tight
compartments that extend vertically from the second
platform to the 01 level in all three ship classes.
The module is the primary structural component
of the VLS launcher. It consists of the deck
structure, intermediate structure, and the base
structure.
Each launcher is made up of modules. On the 8
cell module, the deck structure consists of eight
cell hatches and an uptake hatch to vent gasses
during launch. The deck structure provides ballistic
protection and supports the upper ends of the
canisters. The deck structure is part of the gas
management system that prevents rocket motor exhaust
gasses from escaping into the open launcher area.
All missile hatches contain heating elements to
prevent icing. The cell hatches and uptake hatches
are automatically opened by individual drive motors
before a missile launch. After a delay to permit
venting of the remaining missile exhaust gasses in
the launcher cells, the cell hatches automatically
close.
The intermediate structure forms the
mid-section of the module and is also a part of the
gas management system. It consists of five uptake
sections bolted together and the outboard
structures. The uptake sections form a flu-like
structure for venting missile exhaust gasses. The
outboard structures are bolted to the sides of the
uptake sections that serve as canister guide rails
for installation and removal of canisters.
The base structure serves as a base structure
for the module and as a plenum for the gas
management system. The intermediate structure mounts
directly to the base structure for support of the
module and canisters. The interior surface of the
plenum and uptake are protected with ablative
material to prevent the heat blast from overheating
the VLS structure or ship structure.
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