Vertical Launch Anti-Submarine Rocket ASROC (VLA) Missile |
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Description
The Vertical Launch Anti-Submarine Rocket (ASROC) (VLA) is a surface-ship launched anti-submarine missile designed to deliver the MK 46 Mod 5A(SW) or the MK 54 Mod 0 torpedo to a water-entry point close to a targeted submarine.
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Background
The VLA is intended to provide vertical-launch-capable surface combatants with an all-weather, 360-degree quick-reaction, standoff antisubmarine weapon capability. It is carried by Aegis-equipped ships (cruisers and destroyers) equipped with the Mk41 Vertical Launching System (VLS) and the SQQ-89 ASW Combat System. VLA includes a solid-propellant booster thrust vector control (TVC), and a digital autopilot control (DAC) to guide the missile from a vertical orientation through a pitch-over maneuver into a ballistic trajectory intended to deliver the torpedo to an aim point on the ocean surface. Originally deployed with the MK 46 Mod 5A(S) torpedo, all VLAs have been upgraded with the MK 46 Mod 5A (SW) torpedo. This variant of the MK 46 torpedo provides improved performance in shallow water. With Initial Operational Capability (IOC) of the MK 54 Mod 0 Lightweight Torpedo in 2010, a program is currently underway to upgrade the VLA inventory with the MK 54 Mod 0 Lightweight Torpedo. VLAs with MK 54 Mod 0 torpedoes initiated Fleet deliveries in FY 2010. |
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Point Of Contact
Office of Corporate Communication (SEA 00D)
Naval Sea Systems Command Office
Washington, D.C. 20376 |
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General Characteristics, VLA Missile
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| Contractor: Lockheed Martin |
| Propulsion: Solid propellant rocket |
| Length: 16.7 feet |
| Diameter: 14.1 inches |
| Weight: 1,650 pounds |
| Range: over 10 miles |
| Warhead: 96.8 pounds, high-explosive |
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| Last Update: 10 November 2011 |
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