| Mk 41 vertical launching system | |
|---|---|
 A single 8-cell Mk 41 VLS module fitted to New Zealand frigate HMNZS Te Kaha | |
| Type | Missile launching system |
| Place of origin | United States |
| Service history | |
| In service | 1986–present |
| Used by | United States Navy Royal Navy |
| Wars | Cold War Tanker War Gulf War Kosovo War War on Terror Red Sea crisis |
| Production history | |
| Designed | 1970s |
| Manufacturer | Martin Marietta Lockheed Martin |
| Variants | Mk 57 Mk 70 Mod 1 |
The Mark 41 vertical launching system (Mk 41 VLS) is a shipborne missile canister launching system which provides a rapid-fire launch capability against hostile threats.[1] The vertical launching system (VLS) concept was derived from work on the Aegis Combat System.[2]
- ^ "Mark 41 Vertical Launching System". Retrieved 21 September 2011.
- ^ Friedman, Norman (2006). The Naval Institute Guide to World Naval Weapon Systems (5th ed.). Annapolis, MD: Naval Institute Press. p. 600.