Roketsan Provides Update on Midlas VLS Development

Progress on Turkey’s Indigenous Vertical Launch System

Overview of Midlas Development During the recent Naval Systems Seminar in Istanbul, Mustafa Özdemir, the head of launch systems at Roketsan, provided crucial insights into the progress of the Midlas indigenous vertical launch system (VLS). This system signifies a major advancement for the Turkish Navy, aligning with the nation’s push for self-sufficiency in defense manufacturing. Features and Capabilities of Midlas Özdemir articulated that “Midlas transcends a traditional launcher.” It is a scalable, high-capacity vertical launch system designed not only to store and launch guided munitions but also to function as a munition depot equipped with advanced safety mechanisms.

• Background: The Midlas system was developed as a countermeasure to export limitations affecting foreign systems originally intended for Turkey’s Milgem-class corvettes.
• Flexibility and Expandability: Midlas provides a versatile and indigenous solution for the expanding fleet of surface combatants in the Turkish Navy.

Design Specifications A primary design objective for the Midlas system was to maximize spatial efficiency. Özdemir noted:

• Compact Design: “We can fit eight cells into just six square meters.” Upon finalization of the quad-pack configuration, the same footprint will accommodate up to 32 missiles.

Two distinct configurations have been introduced:

1. Tactical-Length Midlas
   • Length: 6.7 meters
   • Weight: 15 tonnes
   • Capacity: 8 cells
   • Deployment: Currently installed on TCG Istanbul
2. Strike-Length Midlas
   • Length: 8 meters
   • Weight: 18 tonnes
   • Capacity: 8 cells
   • Planned Deployment: Starting from the sixth Milgem vessel onward

Integration and Operational Compatibility A significant advantage of the Midlas system is its capacity for below-deck integration, necessitating minimal modifications to the host vessel. Özdemir highlighted:

• Seamless Integration: TCG Istanbul achieved complete integration without the need to remove the launcher at any stage.
• Operational Interface: The system communicates with the ADVENT combat management system through ethernet connectivity. It features:
  • A status panel for monitoring operational conditions externally.
  • A remote arming interface located within the combat information center for enhanced operational control.

Conclusion The advancements in the Midlas VLS reflect Turkey’s commitment to enhancing its naval capabilities through indigenous development. By minimizing reliance on foreign technology and providing scalable solutions, Roketsan positions the Turkish Navy to better address future maritime security challenges.