Specifications Mark 41 Vertical Launching System

mk 57 vls

the mk 57 vls evolution of mk 41 vls. unlike mk 41, mk 57 designed installed on ship periphery instead of in centralized magazines. developed raytheon, provides backwards compatibility existing missiles while allowing new missiles increased propulsion , payloads. while allowing larger missiles mk 41, primary improvement of mk 57 exhaust gas management system can accommodate new missile designs having 45 percent greater rocket motor mass flow rate of mk 41. unique symmetric geometry of u-shaped gas management system facilitates egress of gases, while minimizing flow witness cells , reversed flow active cell. advantage elimination of water deluge system, used cool missile canister in event missile restraint bolts not release after rocket motor ignition. elimination of water deluge system reduces maintenance , personnel requirements, , protects against accidental missile wet-down.