Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 3:08:01-3:09:04

Peripheral VLS does not eliminate ship volume

Zumwalt-style peripheral launchers show that VLS can run along a hull, but access, power, maintenance, and hull proportions still consume displacement.

MissilesVertical Launch SystemsWarship DesignZumwalt Class Destroyers
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Question

Could a single row of VLS cells run along a ship's side to fit more missiles into a smaller hull?

Short answer

Yes, but it does not necessarily reduce displacement because the cells still require access, services, and suitable hull proportions.

Notes

The Zumwalt class shows that peripheral VLS cells can be fitted along a hull. The cells still need power, maintenance access and supporting space. Widening the ship to fit side-mounted cells also affects its length-to-beam ratio, so a longer hull may be needed to retain propulsion efficiency. The layout therefore does not guarantee a smaller displacement.