Why a future DDG(X) launcher may still be Mark 41

Will DDG(X) have a new vertical-launch-system design?

It could be substantially redesigned, but the prediction is that it would still be presented as part of the Mark 41 family to help secure funding.

The prediction is that DDG(X)'s vertical launcher would retain a Mark 41 designation because an established name would be easier to fund. That label could survive even if the launcher were substantially redesigned. The Super Hornet's relationship to the original Hornet supplies the analogy: a familiar name can cover a much larger engineering change than it suggests. The claim concerns procurement presentation and leaves the new launcher's technical details open.