BAE Systems announces US Navy Mk 41 VLS contract
BAE Systems will advance the development of the US Navy’s Mk 41 Vertical Launching System (VLS) under a new $91.4 million contract announced on 27 June.
The Mk 41 VLS is a highly survivable system located below a naval ship’s armoured deck and is adaptable to accommodate the latest weapon types to meet new mission requirements.
The contract will see BAE Systems provide engineering and technical services in support of the design, manufacturing, installation, testing and product improvements for the Mk 41 VLS.
BAE Systems’ engineers will develop technical solutions for new canister and missile integration as well as launcher improvements to meet emerging threats to the US Navy fleet. The contract also includes work on the design of canister and launcher mechanical efforts, as well as continued work for the support of the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense Program, development of the Mk 29 canister and Aegis Ashore systems.
Chris Hughes, vice president and general manager of Weapon Systems at BAE Systems, said: ’This contract and our long history on this programme demonstrates our sought after expertise in developing superior products for our sailors and is a testament to the overall effectiveness of the Mk 41 VLS.’
The contract provides an overall financial ceiling and will be incrementally funded with approximately $6.3 million being funded with the initial award. The work will continue through December 2016.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Indian Navy’s next generation OPV fleet advances with keel-laying of third vessel]()
Indian Navy’s next generation OPV fleet advances with keel-laying of third vessel
The ship is the third in a fleet of 11, with the first vessel due to be delivered in 2026.
-
![Fincantieri and TKMS partner for Philippine submarine bid]()
Fincantieri and TKMS partner for Philippine submarine bid
The companies have banded together to promote the Fincantieri U212 NFS offering, and hinted that the collaboration may not be a one-bid phenomenon.
-
![New enhanced FREMM frigate delivered to Italian Navy]()
New enhanced FREMM frigate delivered to Italian Navy
The frigate, Spartaco Schergat, is equipped for a broad range of missions, including anti-submarine warfare.
-
![NAVSEA invests more in support of mine countermeasure USVs]()
NAVSEA invests more in support of mine countermeasure USVs
The new contract with Textron Systems will support software development for uncrewed vessels over the next three years.
-
![Two new European logistics support vessels enter sea trials]()
Two new European logistics support vessels enter sea trials
The two Logistic Support Ships (LSS), contracted under Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation, (OCCAR), should be commissioned into service later in 2025.
