Other Missile Support

The Other Missile Support program, detailed under Line Item 2290 in the Navy's Weapons Procurement budget, is focused on sustaining and enhancing the operational readiness of the MK-41 Vertical Launching System (VLS). This system is a critical component for surface combatants, enabling the storage, selection, and launch of multiple missile types including Standard Missile configurations, Tomahawk, Tactical Tomahawk (TACTOM), Evolved SeaSparrow (ESSM), and Vertical Launch Anti-Submarine Rocket (ASROC) missiles. The program's goal is to maintain and improve the flexibility, multi-mission capability, and reliability of the MK-41 VLS across the fleet.

For FY 2026, the Other Missile Support line item allocates funds for production support and Integrated Logistics Support (ILS). These objectives include supply support, provisioning, and technical documentation for weapon stations, All Up Round (AUR) facilities, and the fleet. The program emphasizes the need to ensure that missile launching systems remain fully operational and safe, supporting both current and future Navy missions.

A significant portion of the budget is dedicated to the Canister Equipment sub-element. This includes procurement and installation of canister and gas management hardware, as well as the implementation of Engineering Change Proposals (ECPs) and Ordnance Alterations (ORDALTs). These upgrades are designed to improve reliability and safety, directly impacting fleet loadouts and operational availability. Upgraded canisters and gas management hardware are essential for maintaining the effectiveness of the MK-41 VLS, particularly in supporting evolving missile technologies and addressing emerging safety requirements.

The Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) component is another key objective within this line item. ILS funding supports the development and maintenance of technical documentation, provisioning, and supply chain management for the MK-41 VLS and associated missile systems. This ensures that the fleet has access to necessary spare parts, maintenance procedures, and technical updates, which are vital for minimizing downtime and maximizing operational readiness.

The Other Missile Support program covers a wide range of ship classes equipped with the MK-41 VLS, including TICONDEROGA-class cruisers, ARLEIGH BURKE-class destroyers, and DDG 51 FLT IIA ships, each with specific launcher configurations. The program's objectives are tailored to meet the unique requirements of these platforms, ensuring that missile support infrastructure is compatible and effective across the Navy's diverse surface combatant fleet.

Justification for continued investment in this line item is rooted in the need to address reliability and safety upgrades for MK-41 VLS canisters and gas management hardware. The availability of these upgrades directly affects the Navy's ability to deploy a full range of missile capabilities, maintain operational tempo, and ensure the safety of personnel and equipment. The program also supports the development and procurement of critical ECPs and ORDALTs, which are necessary to keep pace with technological advancements and evolving mission requirements.

The Other Missile Support program is a foundational element of the Navy's tactical missile infrastructure, supporting both procurement and sustainment activities. Its goals and objectives are centered on maintaining the MK-41 VLS's operational effectiveness, implementing reliability and safety improvements, and providing comprehensive logistics support. These efforts collectively ensure that the Navy's surface combatants remain capable of executing multi-mission operations with a high degree of flexibility and readiness.