Lockheed Martin Secures $73M Contract for Advanced MK 41 Vertical Launching Systems
Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems, headquartered in Moorestown, New Jersey, has been awarded a $73.1 million contract modification to produce additional MK 41 Vertical Launching System (VLS) modules and ancillary equipment. This development underscores the U.S. Navy’s dedication to enhancing its shipbuilding initiatives and maintaining a cutting-edge naval combat capability. The project is slated for completion by December 2026 and will support the Navy’s expanding fleet with state-of-the-art missile launching technology.
The MK 41 VLS: A Cornerstone of Naval Warfare
The MK 41 VLS is a multi-mission, modular missile launching system integral to modern naval combat operations. Known for its versatility, the MK 41 serves as the backbone of the Navy’s offensive and defensive capabilities, seamlessly integrating with weapon control systems and missiles across a range of combat domains. These include:
- Anti-air warfare
- Anti-surface warfare
- Anti-submarine warfare
- Ballistic missile defense
- Land attack
One of the system’s standout features is its ability to accommodate any missile in any cell, offering unparalleled flexibility and rapid response capabilities in mission-critical scenarios.
Specifications and Configurations
The MK 41 employs a modular design, with each module containing eight launch cells. Configurations are adaptable to meet varying mission demands, ranging from a single eight-cell module to a massive 16-module configuration with 122 cells.
System Lengths:
- Strike Length: At approximately 25 feet (7.6 meters), this configuration supports larger missiles, such as those for ballistic missile defense and long-range strikes.
- Tactical Length: At 22 feet (6.7 meters), this configuration accommodates most missile types but excludes long-range Tomahawk cruise missiles and other ballistic missile defense systems.
Deployed in 13 configurations worldwide, the MK 41 integrates seamlessly across various ship classes, enhancing combat readiness for diverse mission profiles.
Strategic Importance
The MK 41 VLS is more than a missile launcher—it is a force multiplier. By enabling multi-mission capabilities, the system ensures naval vessels can adapt to the dynamic nature of modern threats. Its robust design and operational flexibility make it indispensable for ship classes such as destroyers, cruisers, and even allied navies worldwide.
Distribution and Funding
The contract will distribute work across several U.S. locations, including Moorestown, New Jersey (31%); Indianapolis, Indiana (27%); and smaller contributions from Michigan, New York, Missouri, California, and Virginia. The funding primarily draws from the fiscal 2025 shipbuilding and conversion budget, with smaller allocations from fiscal 2023 and 2024 funds.
Enhancing Combat Readiness
This latest contract modification highlights the Navy’s commitment to strengthening its fleet’s operational flexibility and combat capabilities. With the MK 41 VLS, U.S. ships are better equipped to counter a spectrum of threats, from missile attacks to undersea incursions. The system’s adaptability ensures it remains a cornerstone of naval warfare technology for years to come.
The $73.1 million investment reaffirms Lockheed Martin’s role as a critical partner in advancing naval combat systems, fortifying the Navy’s position as a global maritime power.
