The MK 41 VLS is considered the worldwide standard in shipboard missile launching systems.

The contract was awarded to DRS by Lockheed Martin. For this award, DRS will produce and support the launch control and power distribution subsystems of the MK 41 VLS.

This equipment provides electronic control functions that are critical to the missile launch sequence, distributes electrical power to vital launching system components and provides system status and health monitoring.

Work for this contract will be accomplished by the company's DRS Training & Control Systems unit in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Product deliveries are expected to continue through 2006.

"The receipt of this contract reinforces DRS's position as a key supplier of high-quality electronic missile launch control equipment supporting US and allied naval vessels," said Fred L. Marion, president of DRS's Surveillance & Reconnaissance Group.

"The MK 41 VLS continues to provide a solid business base for our weapons' control systems product line, extending our 22-year participation on the program."

"Our customer's commitment to the long-term sustainability of VLS equipment reaffirms our position as a leading provider of control systems and defense electronics for shipboard applications."

The MK 41 Vertical Launching System is a missile launching system used on US Navy surface ships, as well as the ships of 10 other allied countries.

It is installed below deck and provides the capability to fire a variety of missiles, including anti-air, anti-submarine, surface-to-surface and strike.

The current MK 41 VLS, representing seven generations of advancements, shares little more than the same common structure with the first launcher introduced into the Navy fleet.

DRS Technologies