Netherlands Gets OK to Buy MK 41 Vertical Launching System

The U.S. State Department has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Netherlands of MK 41 Vertical Launching Systems (VLS) Baseline (B/L) VII Strike Length Launcher Modules (either system or standalone) and related equipment for an estimated cost of $110 million.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.

The Netherlands has requested a possible purchase of eight eight-cell MK 41 Vertical Launching Systems (VLS) Baseline (B/L) VII Strike Length Launcher Modules (either system or standalone), and related support and equipment.

The Royal Netherlands Navy intends to use the MK 41 VLS Baseline (B/L) VII strike length launcher modules for their new ship class. These modules are intended for ESSM BLK1 and SM-2 capabilities in support of ongoing and emergent operational needs. The Netherlands has previously purchased MK 41 VLS capability and actively uses it on their current ship classes.

The prime contractor will be Lockheed Martin Corporation, Bethesda, MD.