K-VLS (Korean Vertical Launch System)

K-VLS (Korean Vertical Launch System)

Type: launch_system

Domain: sea

Country of Origin: South Korea

Manufacturer: Hanwha / LIG Nex1

Overview

South Korea's indigenous cold-launch vertical launch system, developed to reduce dependence on the American Mk 41 VLS and enable integration of Korean-developed missiles. The K-VLS I (first generation) features cells designed for the Hyunmoo-3 cruise missile and K-ASROC anti-submarine rocket, installed on KDX-III Aegis destroyers. The K-VLS II (second generation) is an enlarged and improved system designed for the Jeongjo the Great Batch-II destroyers and KSS-III submarines, accommodating larger missiles including the Hyunmoo-4-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile. Features hot-gas management, shock isolation, and automated loading for rapid missile readiness. The K-VLS represents a critical enabler of South Korea's indigenous missile capability — allowing Korean-designed weapons to be deployed without foreign VLS licensing constraints.

Operators

Related sea Weapon Systems