VLS (Vertical Launch System)

The Vertical Launch System (VLS) is a missile launching technology used on naval ships, especially submarines and aircraft carriers. It consists of a series of cylindrical canisters arranged vertically that hold various types of missiles, including defensive, offensive, or reconnaissance missiles. When needed, the ship can quickly fire these missiles directly upward, where they are guided to their targets. VLS allows rapid, flexible, and space-efficient deployment of multiple missile types, enhancing a ship's combat capabilities. It replaces older, fixed-launchers and provides a versatile, modular way to carry and launch different missile systems from the same platform.