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
-
Lockheed Martin strengthens Spanish SPY-7 radar supply chain
The global defence giant chose a Spanish firm for its work on the Bonifaz-class frigate.
-
Oostende mine countermeasures vessel begins sea trials
The first vessel in the Belgian-Dutch rMCM mine-clearing fleet, the Oostende, has begun its sea trials before officially entering service in 2025.
-
US Navy places $312 million contract with Textron Systems for landing craft
Textron’s latest order for Ship to Shore Connector (SSC), Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC) follows on from a contract placed in August 2023 for five LCAC.
-
Japan to boost surface fleet with new destroyers and missile ships
Japan is enhancing its naval capabilities with the construction of the 13DDX advanced destroyer and Aegis System Equipped Vessels (AESV), aiming to strengthen its air and missile defence amid increasing security threats, particularly in East Asia.