USS Zumwalt uses Mk-57 VLS in first live test
A Standard Missile-2 was launched successfully in the test
The Mk-57 Vertical Launching System (VLS) has undergone its first live fire test from USS Zumwalt, the USN announced on 19 October.
A Standard Missile-2 was launched successfully in the test, which took place in early October at the Naval Air Weapons Center Weapons Division Sea Test Range in Point Mugu, California.
The Mk-57 VLS was co-developed for the USN by Raytheon and Lockheed Martin.
Unlike many of its counterparts, Mk-57 is designed to be installed on the periphery of a ship instead of centralised magazines.
Shephard Defence Insight notes that it is compatible with existing missiles but is also designed to designed to accommodate larger missiles with increased propulsion and payloads, as it features an exhaust gas management system.
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