Aster/Mk41 VLS compatibility study
£2M UK MOD one-year study contract for MBDA to assess Aster missile compatibility with the US Mk41 Vertical Launching System.
One-year technical study for MBDA UK — as Aster's OEM, and holder of contractual rights to Lockheed Martin's Mk41 technical data — to assess whether the Aster missile family can be safely and effectively integrated into Mk41 VLS cells. Aims to inform launcher commonality across the Royal Navy's surface fleet, potentially reducing the need to maintain separate VLS types per missile. Awarded under Section 41 of the Procurement Act 2023 on single-supplier grounds given MBDA's proprietary technical knowledge of Aster's propulsion, launch dynamics, and digital interfaces.
Award detail
- Agency
- UK Ministry of Defence
- Award ID
- Undisclosed
- Ceiling value
- £2 million
- Vehicle
- One-year study of Aster compatibility with US Mk41 VLS
- Awarded
- 2026-01-01
- Period of performance ends
- 2027-03
Programs0
No linked records yet.
Frequently asked
- What is the Aster/Mk41 VLS compatibility study contract?
- One-year technical study for MBDA UK — as Aster's OEM, and holder of contractual rights to Lockheed Martin's Mk41 technical data — to assess whether the Aster missile family can be safely and effectively integrated into Mk41 VLS cells. Aims to inform launcher commonality across the Royal Navy's surface fleet, potentially reducing the need to maintain separate VLS types per missile. Awarded under Section 41 of the Procurement Act 2023 on single-supplier grounds given MBDA's proprietary technical knowledge of Aster's propulsion, launch dynamics, and digital interfaces.
- Which agency awarded the Aster/Mk41 VLS compatibility study contract?
- The Aster/Mk41 VLS compatibility study contract was awarded by UK Ministry of Defence under a One-year study of Aster compatibility with US Mk41 VLS vehicle.
- How much is the Aster/Mk41 VLS compatibility study contract worth?
- The Aster/Mk41 VLS compatibility study contract has a value of £2 million, awarded on 2026-01-01.
Sources & citations2
Each claim links to its underlying source. Confidence reflects how directly the source supports the claim.
- 1
UK MOD confirmed plans to award MBDA UK a one-year, £2 million study on Aster/Mk41 VLS compatibility, January 2026
Army Recognition: UK MoD Requests MBDA Study on Aster Missile Compatibility with Mk41 VLS for British Navy WarshipsVerified2026-01-01 - 2
One-year Mk41 Integration Study, estimated £2,000,000, awarded under Procurement Act 2023 Section 41 (single supplier); work runs February 2026 to March 2027
UK Find a Tender Service: Mk41 Integration Study — Notice 008652-2026Verified2026-01-30