Type 26 Mark 41 VLS capacity limits

How many Mark 41 VLS cells can fit in the Type 26 hull while retaining the 5-inch gun?

The arrangement discussed has three eight-cell blocks, or twenty-four cells, and the forward area is described as close to its practical limit while retaining the 5-inch gun.

The arrangement discussed places three eight-cell Mark 41 blocks across the Type 26, giving twenty-four cells in the planned area. That space is described as close to its practical limit while retaining the 5-inch gun. The bow narrows below deck, leaving less rectangular volume for deep launch modules than a plan view implies. Moving launchers aft can provide more usable space, while amidships placement competes with sensors. Missile exhaust and fragments also require separation from fragile equipment. Launcher capacity therefore depends on the hull's internal shape and the surrounding systems.