The ADL was developed under a U.S. Department of War contract for the NATO Seasparrow Project Office. It uses existing Mk 41 Vertical Launching System electronics and logistics, drawing on established support infrastructure to keep operating costs down.
“The successful demonstration of the Adaptable Deck Launcher is a major milestone in our commitment to enhancing the Navy’s combat effectiveness and readiness,” said Jason Casciotti, vice president of Weapons Systems at BAE Systems. “The ADL complements the Mk 41 VLS — the foundation of naval missile integration — by providing a capability for rapid replenishment, using standard shipboard equipment and offering the fleet additional flexibility in how it sustains combat loads at sea.”
BAE Systems designed the launcher for aircraft carriers, amphibious ships and other surface combatants. Compact configurations are also intended for medium uncrewed surface vessels.
The launcher is fully compatible with Evolved SeaSparrow Missile Mk 25 Quad-Pack canisters, according to BAE Systems. These provide surface-to-air defense against supersonic anti-ship missiles, aircraft and other aerial threats.
