Q&A · 4:22:03-4:22:57

Vertical-launch replenishment and relative motion

Reloading at sea requires keeping missiles aligned while ship and transfer equipment move.

Question

How could vertical-launch missile cells be replenished at sea?

Short answer

A rail or chute fixed relative to the receiving ship is suggested as one possible response to relative movement.

Notes

Reloading requires control of motion between the deck, crane and transferred missile. A proposed rail or chute would remain connected to the receiving ship. It could preserve a consistent relationship with the hull while moving the missile into position. The concept remains a tentative suggestion about the eventual approach. Other methods may prove more viable despite greater expense.