VLS demand drives contract modifications for Lockheed and DRS
Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems and DRS Laurel Technologies were each awarded contracts from the US Naval Surface Warfare Center on 21 May, for work in support of the Vertical Launch System (VLS).
A $48.97 million contract modification for Lockheed Martin will see it exercise options for production of additional MK 5 Mod 2 launch sequencers. The company is expected to complete work by April 2022.
DRS Laurel Technologies will exercise options to manufacture, assemble, test and deliver additional Mk 235 Mod 11 and Mod 12 production units, under a $26.05 million contract modification. It will complete this work by February 2021.
The VLS provides area and self-defence and anti-air warfare capabilities, as well as counter-air and land attack cruise missile defence and surface/ASW capabilities.
Each VLS is equipped with two redundant launch control units, which are electrically interfaced with all of the launch sequencers in the system.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
![US and European special operators test Icelandic AI-based solution for marine platforms]()
US and European special operators test Icelandic AI-based solution for marine platforms
Hefring Marine IMAS was designed to optimise vessels’ operation.
-
![US Navy expands GARC sUSV deployment]()
US Navy expands GARC sUSV deployment
The small, unmanned surface vehicle will operate this year in multiple operations and military exercises worldwide.
-
![Another $18.4 billion committed to USN Virginia-class submarines]()
Another $18.4 billion committed to USN Virginia-class submarines
The contract was awarded to HII’s Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) division and General Dynamics Electric Boat (GDEB). As well as for the building of the boats, contract money will also go towards improving productivity at the shipyards, workforce support and other investment.
-
![The Netherlands cleared to purchase $2.2 billion in Tomahawk missiles]()
The Netherlands cleared to purchase $2.2 billion in Tomahawk missiles
The approved purchase is for Tomahawk Block IV and Block V missiles, control systems, telemetry missiles and communication and broadcast systems.
-
![The Philippines strengthens maritime defences amid rising tensions in South China Sea]()
The Philippines strengthens maritime defences amid rising tensions in South China Sea
The Philippine Navy is fast-tracking its maritime modernisation with new warships, unmanned platforms, and international shipbuilding partnerships to bolster its regional deterrence posture.
-
![Taiwan multiplies mine-layer vessel and UAV inventories to deter PLA]()
Taiwan multiplies mine-layer vessel and UAV inventories to deter PLA
Taiwan is strengthening its deterrence against the PLA through an asymmetric arsenal that includes fast mine-laying vessels and domestically developed UAVs.
