Lockheed opens upgraded VLS production line
Lockheed Martin has opened an upgraded Mk 41 Vertical Launching System (VLS) production line at its Middle River facility in Maryland, it announced on 24 March.
The Mk 41 VLS can launch surface-to-surface, anti-submarine, anti-air and strike missiles as well as receive orders from multiple weapon control systems. The new line was designed and implemented under a 2014 US Navy contract for continued VLS production. As part of the modernisation effort, the team developed over 80 tools for production flow optimisation. The modernisation was deemed necessary by Lockheed Martin after it received a contract to re-establish deck and hatch production at the Middle River facility.
Stephanie Hill, vice president and general manager, ship and aviation systems business, Lockheed Martin, said: ‘We are proud to continue manufacturing the Mk 41 VLS in Baltimore County and bringing this critical capability to the fleets of the US Navy and its allies. In partnership with the US Navy, we have been delivering, modernising and supporting the MK 41 VLS system for more than 30 years.
‘We, along with our suppliers in Maryland and all over the nation, look forward to continuing to serve our customer with this critical national defence capability.’
More from Naval Warfare
-
![European navies line up $105.8 billion in unawarded contracts for 2026]()
European navies line up $105.8 billion in unawarded contracts for 2026
France, Germany and Italy lead the way on unawarded naval defence opportunities that could be awarded this year, but across Europe countries are ramping up their spending efforts to face geopolitical challenges.
-
![Spain’s F100 upgrade mirrors Aegis modernisation paths in allied navies]()
Spain’s F100 upgrade mirrors Aegis modernisation paths in allied navies
The Spanish Navy’s Alvaro de Bazan-class of air defence frigates will receive the latest Aegis Weapon System technology among other modernisations to extend the service life to 2045.
-
![UK’s Fleet Solid Support ship programme deemed on track despite steel supply concerns]()
UK’s Fleet Solid Support ship programme deemed on track despite steel supply concerns
Shipbuilders are saying the programme is going ahead on time as the government estimates 7.7 million tonnes of steel are needed for 2026 infrastructure projects.
-
![Raytheon unveils details of its proposal for the US Navy/NATO ESSM Next Significant Variant]()
Raytheon unveils details of its proposal for the US Navy/NATO ESSM Next Significant Variant
In an exclusive interview with Shephard, Raytheon’s VP of Shipboard Missiles disclosed what improvements the company plans to offer for the Sea Sparrow NSV.
