Mark 41 as the benchmark vertical launch system

What is the best current production vertical launch system?

Mark 41 remains the benchmark, although Korean and Chinese systems are competitive and the Zumwalt-style peripheral system offers valuable deck-edge design flexibility.

Mark 41 is the panel's choice of benchmark for comparing production vertical launch systems. Korean systems are considered strong, while Chinese systems are described as improving after moving beyond circular cell arrangements that complicate access to inner cells. The term revolver here describes the circular layout and does not necessarily mean rounds rotating past a common launch tube. Zumwalt's peripheral VLS concept also receives a favourable assessment because deck-edge placement offers different design options from a centreline bank.