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Sylver vertical launching system

The (SYstème de Lancement VERtical) is a modular (VLS) developed by the French naval defense company DCNS (now ) and introduced into service in 2001, designed to enable surface warships to launch a variety of missiles vertically from cold-launch canisters for enhanced anti-air warfare and strike capabilities. It consists of eight-cell rectangular modules (or four-cell for the A-35 variant), each occupying approximately 6 square meters of deck space, with individual cells measuring 60 cm by 56 cm to accommodate missiles up to 7 meters in length depending on the variant; the system uses a composite uptake for exhaust gas management, supporting high rates of fire such as up to eight missiles in 10 seconds when integrated with the (PAAMS). Sylver is available in four main variants, designated by their approximate height in decimeters—A-35 (3.5 m for short-range missiles like Mica or quad-packed Crotale VT1), A-43 (4.3 m for Aster 15), A-50 (5 m for both Aster 15 and Aster 30), and A-70 (7 m for larger weapons like the MdCN cruise missile)—allowing adaptation to different vessel sizes from corvettes to aircraft carriers. The system primarily supports MBDA's Aster family of surface-to-air missiles (Aster 15 for short-range defense up to 30 km and Aster 30 for extended-range and anti-ballistic roles exceeding 120 km), as well as naval cruise missiles such as the MdCN (Scalp Naval) and potentially others like Exocet Block 3, providing versatile air defense against aircraft, drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic threats. Adopted by multiple navies, has been integrated into over 200 modules sold worldwide, equipping vessels such as France's Horizon-class destroyers and Frégate de Défense et d'Intervention (FDI) frigates (planned to be upgraded to 32 cells for enhanced capacity, as announced in November 2025), Italy's Orizzonte-class and Bergamini-class frigates, the UK's Type 45 destroyers, Singapore's Formidable-class frigates, and ships for , , , and .

Development and History

Origins and Design Goals

The Sylver vertical launching system was conceived in the late as part of the French Navy's push to modernize its armament capabilities with a modular VLS capable of supporting rapid missile launches against aerial and surface threats, addressing limitations of legacy systems like the ASW launcher. Developed by DCNS (now [Naval Group](/page/Naval Group)), the system aimed to provide a flexible platform for integrating advanced missiles, aligning with broader European naval requirements for enhanced multi-role defense. Collaboration on accelerated through the Horizon program, launched in 1992 after the collapse of the Replacement for the 90s (NFR-90) initiative. and formalized their partnership under the Common New Generation (CNGF) framework in 1993, focusing on shared development costs and -compatible systems to equip next-generation air defense vessels, with the initially participating before withdrawing in 1997. This joint effort integrated with the Principal Anti-Air Missile System (PAAMS) and missiles under the France-Italy Surface-to-Air Family (FSAF) program, emphasizing across allied fleets. Key design goals prioritized operational reliability and installation efficiency, including cold-launch capability using gas ejection for ignition above the launcher to ensure consistent performance in diverse climates, such as cold-weather environments. The system was engineered for 360-degree firing arcs, enabling omnidirectional threat engagement without launcher repositioning, and requiring substantial deck penetration, approximately 6.1 m for taller variants, to accommodate the full height and simplify on existing hulls. was a core objective, allowing variants to adapt to diverse ship classes, from compact frigates to large carriers like the . Early development received funding from the French Direction Générale de l'Armement (DGA) starting in 1995, supporting prototype construction and testing to validate the modular architecture ahead of integration into Horizon-class ships. This phase laid the groundwork for Sylver's evolution into multiple variants tailored to specific mission profiles.

Key Milestones and Testing

The development of the Sylver vertical launching system began as part of the Franco-Italian SAAM (Surface-to-Air Aster Maritime) naval self-defence program, with contracts awarded in 1990 to establish the groundwork for the system alongside the Aster missile family. This initiative marked the initial phase of designing a cold-launch VLS capable of accommodating Aster surface-to-air missiles, focusing on integration with naval platforms for rapid response air defence. Early testing commenced in 1993, when site trials of the associated Arabel began, coinciding with launches using a complete Aster naval system to validate flight sequences, altitudes, and ranges. The first firing of an Aster 30 missile occurred in December 1994, demonstrating the booster and dart configuration's performance in a ground-launched configuration that informed subsequent adaptations. By 1997, the first system was delivered for integration testing, paving the way for land-based prototypes to evaluate exhaust management and module stability. Sea trials marked a significant advancement in 2001, with the completion of SAAM-FR tests in May, including successful intercepts of supersonic sea-skimming targets using missiles from launchers aboard French test platforms. Qualification for 15 integration followed in 2002, achieving full operational certification for short-range air defence scenarios during Italian SAAM-IT trials from the Carabiniere test ship. The system's robustness was further confirmed through environmental testing for shock, vibration, and (), ensuring compatibility with harsh naval conditions. International collaboration intensified with the UK's entry into the program in 1999, leading to joint firing trials in 2003 off to refine shared -Aster interoperability. Full system certification for the Horizon-class frigates was attained in 2004, validating the A50 configuration for extended-range 30 operations after resolving integration challenges with , particularly regarding missile exhaust venting and thermal management. Expansion efforts culminated in 2010, when the Sylver A70 variant achieved compatibility with the MdCN naval cruise missile through its first all-up-round firing test from a production-series launcher at the Biscarrosse center, enabling strike-length capabilities on FREMM-class platforms. Throughout development, over 500 simulated launches were conducted to optimize reliability, with empirical trials emphasizing the system's modular design and cold-launch sequence for high salvo rates.

Design Features and Variants

Module Configurations

The Sylver vertical launching system employs a modular architecture centered on rectangular 8-cell units arranged in a 2x4 , providing a compact and scalable design for naval integration. Each cell features an inner dimension of approximately 0.60 m by 0.56 m, enabling accommodation of various canisters while maintaining structural integrity. The A35 is also available in 4-cell modules for applications requiring smaller footprints. These modules occupy about 6 square meters of deck space, facilitating efficient arrangement on ship hulls. Variants of the system are distinguished by their strike lengths, which determine the depth available for storage and launch. The A35 configuration offers a 3.5 m depth suited for short-range missiles, while the A43 provides 4.3 m for medium-range applications. The A50 extends to 5 m, and the A70 reaches 7 m to support longer munitions, allowing tailored selections based on operational requirements. Configuration flexibility is a key attribute, with modules installable in linear rows or clustered arrays to achieve total cell counts ranging from to 96, depending on vessel size and mission profile. The A70 variant uniquely supports true vertical launches of missiles without requiring canister tilting, enhancing compatibility with extended-range . Installation occurs via deck mounting, minimizing below-deck penetration; for instance, the A43 requires a total height of 4.3 m from deck to exhaust uptake. Reloading is achieved through dedicated hatches for canister insertion, typically from below-deck areas or during resupply operations. Integrated , including mechanisms, and blast mitigation features—such as individual cell exhaust vents—ensure crew safety and module survivability during launches or malfunctions. Custom adaptations enable seamless integration with stealth-oriented ship designs, incorporating flush decking and low-profile exhausts to minimize cross-section while preserving launch functionality.

Technical Specifications

The Sylver vertical launching system utilizes a hot launch mechanism, in which the missile's solid motor ignites directly within the launch to provide immediate upward thrust. The system's sequential firing rate supports one missile launch every second per module, enabling a full salvo of up to 8 in approximately 10 seconds when integrated with systems like . For the A43 module, a standard configuration for short- to medium-range missiles, dimensions are 2.6 m long by 2.3 m wide by 4.3 m high, with an empty weight of approximately 8 tons (8,000 ). These specifications contribute to the module's compact footprint of roughly 6 square meters on deck, facilitating integration on frigates and destroyers. Variant-specific depths vary, with the A43 suited for missiles up to 4.3 m in length. Safety features include redundant electronics to enhance , individual vents per cell to direct exhaust gases away from the ship, and interlocks that prevent reloading until the cell is clear. The design ensures compatibility with advanced combat management systems like SETIS for seamless integration. Environmentally, the system operates reliably from -20°C to +50°C, withstands shocks up to 20 g, and resists saltwater corrosion through specialized coatings and materials.

Compatible Ordnance

Surface-to-Air Missiles

The vertical launching system is primarily designed to accommodate the Aster family of surface-to-air missiles, which provide layered air defense capabilities for naval platforms. The Aster 15 serves as the short-range variant, with an engagement envelope extending up to 30 km, utilizing for precise terminal guidance. Launched vertically from Sylver cells, the Aster 15 employs a solid-propellant booster that separates shortly after launch, transitioning to the missile's PIF-PAF (Pilotage en Force / Pilotage Aérodynamique) for high-agility maneuvers, enabling 360-degree coverage against threats like aircraft, drones, and anti-ship missiles. Integration of the 15 into modules involves canisterized storage with automatic alignment mechanisms, ensuring rapid cold-launch ejection via gas pressure before booster ignition. Fire control is managed through integrated radar systems, such as the multi-function radar or , which provide target illumination and mid-course updates until the missile's autonomous seeker activates. This configuration supports high rates of fire, with enabling up to eight missiles in quick succession for point defense roles, safeguarding individual vessels from close-in threats. Trials have confirmed the system's reliability, contributing to the family's overall record of over 250 successful firings. The Aster 30 extends the system's reach for medium- to long-range engagements, achieving up to 120 km with enhanced propulsion and the same active radar homing as its shorter-range counterpart. It maintains compatibility with all Sylver variants, including the A50 module for extended-range operations, and shares the booster separation process for optimized post-launch performance. In area defense scenarios, the Aster 30 protects task forces against a broader spectrum of aerial threats, including supersonic cruise missiles. A key evolution, the 30 Block 1NT variant incorporates a Ka-band seeker to improve and tracking against ballistic missiles, enabling intercepts of short-range threats traveling at speeds exceeding 5. This upgrade enhances the system's anti-missile role without requiring modifications to launchers, preserving seamless integration and canister-based loading. The Block 1NT's capabilities have been validated in qualification tests, underscoring its contribution to comprehensive air and architectures. The system also supports the VL MICA (Vertical Launch Mica) missile for short- to medium-range air defense, compatible with A35, A43, and A50 modules. VL MICA uses or , with a range of 20-40 km depending on the variant, offering capability against , helicopters, and cruise missiles in all-weather conditions. It provides a lighter, more compact alternative to the Aster family for volume-limited platforms.

Cruise and Other Missiles

The Sylver vertical launching system enables naval strike capabilities through integration with long-range cruise missiles, notably the MdCN (Missile de Croisière Naval), a navalized variant of the SCALP missile developed by MBDA for the French Navy. The MdCN is a stealthy, subsonic cruise missile measuring 6.5 meters in length and weighing 1,400 kg, powered by a turbofan engine for extended endurance. It employs GPS and inertial navigation system (INS) guidance, combined with terrain-referenced navigation and infrared imaging for terminal accuracy, delivering a 250 kg warhead with a circular error probable (CEP) of less than 10 meters against high-value land targets. Designed for vertical cold launch, the MdCN is compatible with the Sylver A70 module, which accommodates missiles up to 7 meters long and provides a compact, eight-cell configuration for surface ships like the FREMM-class frigates. This adaptation allows for rapid salvo fire and mixed loads with surface-to-air missiles in the same launcher array, enhancing operational flexibility. The A50 module offers similar support for slightly shorter variants, though primary qualification remains with A70 for full-range MdCN employment. Pre-planned enhancements to the Sylver system include provisions for vertical launch of the Exocet MM40 Block 3 anti-ship missile, which features a 180 km range, sea-skimming trajectory, and turbojet propulsion for low-altitude, all-weather strikes against surface vessels. Beyond cruise and anti-ship roles, the supports alternative through modular adaptations, particularly in the A35 variant, which is optimized for shorter missiles and enables quad-packing of smaller weapons like the Crotale NG (VT1) in a single to improve cost efficiency and magazine depth without expanding the launcher's footprint. This quad-packing approach multiplies effective payload capacity for volume-constrained platforms, allowing up to four missiles per for short-range applications while maintaining compatibility with larger in adjacent modules. Future potential includes integration of torpedoes or systems via the A35, leveraging its compact 56 cm x 60 cm dimensions for non-standard payloads, though current implementations prioritize missile-based strike options. A key limitation of the Sylver system is the absence of dedicated support for anti-submarine rockets, such as rocket-assisted torpedoes, focusing instead on precision surface and land-attack strikes rather than underwater threats. This design emphasis ensures high survivability and standoff range for offensive operations but requires complementary systems for comprehensive .

Operational Deployment

Current Naval Platforms

The Sylver vertical launching system (VLS) is deployed across active naval platforms operated by , , the , , , , and as of November 2025. These platforms primarily include air defense and multi-mission frigates and destroyers, configured with variants such as the A43, A50, and A70 modules to accommodate missiles like the family for surface-to-air defense and MdCN for land-attack roles. In the French Navy, the system equips two Horizon-class destroyers, Forbin (D620) and Chevalier Paul (D621), each with 48 Sylver A50 cells dedicated to Aster 15 and Aster 30 missiles; both were commissioned between 2009 and 2010. The eight in-service Aquitaine-class (FREMM) frigates, commissioned from 2012 to 2023, feature configurations ranging from 16 to 32 cells: the six anti-submarine warfare (ASW) variants (Aquitaine, Provence, Languedoc, Auvergne, Normandie, Bretagne) have 16 A43 cells for Aster missiles plus 16 A70 cells for MdCN cruise missiles, while the two air defense variants (Alsace and Lorraine) have 32 A50 cells for Aster missiles. For example, the lead ship Aquitaine carries 16 cells for Aster missiles and 16 for MdCN. Additionally, the first of five planned Defence and Intervention (FDI) frigates, Amiral Ronarc'h (D660), was delivered in October 2025 with 16 Sylver A50 cells for Aster missiles; the remaining four are under construction, with later units slated for 32 cells. The operates two Horizon-class destroyers, (D553) and Caio Duilio (D554), each fitted with 48 A50 cells for missiles and commissioned in 2009. Its ten Bergamini-class (FREMM) frigates, all delivered by August 2025, are equipped with 16 A50 cells for 15 and 30 missiles across general-purpose and ASW configurations. The class includes eight general-purpose frigates and two ASW-enhanced variants, with the latter two (Spartaco Schergat and Emilio Bianchi) entering service in 2025. Four Thaon di Revel-class (PPA) multipurpose offshore patrol vessels are in service as of 2025, initially without VLS but with provisions for interim A43 modules and planned A70 upgrades for integration in light-plus configurations. The Royal Navy of the operates six Type 45 (Daring-class) destroyers, all commissioned between 2009 and 2013, each equipped with 48 A50 cells for Aster 15 and Aster 30 missiles (known as Sea Viper). The Egyptian Navy operates two FREMM-class frigates, ENS Al-Galala (FFG-1002, commissioned November 2022) and ENS Bernees (FFG-1003, commissioned 2024), each with 16 A50 cells for Aster 15 and Aster 30 missiles. The Royal Moroccan Navy operates one multi-mission , Mohammed VI (FFG-141), commissioned in 2014 and fitted with 16 A43 cells for 15 missiles. The Algerian National Navy operates one San Giorgio-class amphibious transport dock, Kalaat Béni Abbès (L-474), commissioned in 2015 and equipped with 8 A50 cells for 15 and 30 missiles. Singapore's fields six Formidable-class , commissioned between 2007 and 2011, each with 32 A50 cells for Aster 15 and Aster 30 missiles to support multi-role operations.

Combat and Exercise Usage

Sylver-equipped vessels have participated in several multinational exercises demonstrating the system's integration with Aster missiles for integrated air and missile defense (IAMD). During NATO's Formidable Shield 2019, held off the coast of Scotland, French, Italian, and British ships, including those fitted with Sylver launchers, conducted live-fire intercepts against supersonic and ballistic threats, validating interoperability among allied forces. In the 2023 iteration of the exercise, Royal Navy, French Navy, and Italian Navy units fired Aster 15 and Aster 30 missiles from Sylver vertical launch systems (VLS) to successfully engage supersonic sea-skimming targets, subsonic threats, and a ballistic missile surrogate, highlighting the system's effectiveness against diverse aerial challenges. French naval forces have also tested Sylver's versatility in strike roles through dedicated trials. In a 2024 demonstration, FREMM-class frigates synchronized launches of MdCN (Missile de Croisière Naval) cruise missiles from Sylver A70 modules, striking a land target to affirm the system's compatibility with long-range precision weaponry in operational scenarios. In operational patrols, Sylver systems have supported maritime security missions. French FREMM frigates, such as Languedoc and Alsace, deployed to the Gulf of Aden and Red Sea from 2015 onward as part of anti-piracy and counter-terrorism efforts under international coalitions, maintaining Aster missile readiness to protect shipping lanes amid regional instability. Italian Horizon-class destroyers contributed to Mediterranean operations between 2016 and 2020, providing air defense coverage during humanitarian and migrant interdiction patrols coordinated with EU and NATO partners. Combat employment of has been limited but significant in high-threat environments. In late 2023 and throughout 2024, French FREMM frigates in the , including and , conducted live Aster 15 and Aster 30 launches from Sylver VLS to intercept Houthi and anti-ship ballistic missiles targeting commercial vessels, marking the system's first confirmed combat uses. Similarly, the Fasan, equipped with Sylver, downed a Houthi in 2024 during EU Operation Aspides to safeguard merchant traffic. As of 2025, these engagements represent the primary instances of live combat firings, with no reported failures in launch or guidance. Operational experience has underscored Sylver's high reliability in contested domains, where rapid response and multi-threat handling proved essential against asymmetric and ballistic dangers. Post-2020 software enhancements to associated fire control systems, including integration with upgraded Block 1NT variants, have improved interception of hypersonic and maneuvering threats, drawing from lessons to enhance overall resilience.

Future Developments

Planned Upgrades

The is pursuing mid-life upgrades for its Horizon-class destroyers, which are equipped with A50 vertical launch systems, to modernize weapons and combat systems for enhanced anti-air and defense capabilities. These upgrades, jointly developed with , include improvements to sensors, , and integration of advanced ordnance, with critical design reviews completed in 2025 and full implementation targeted for the late 2020s. A key element of these efforts involves the integration of the Aster 30 Block 1NT missile variant into systems, providing extended-range interception against short- and medium-range ballistic missiles up to 1,500 km. This upgrade builds on the existing Aster 30 compatibility with Sylver A50 launchers and is scheduled for rollout starting in 2025 on land-based SAMP/T NG systems, with naval deployment following on and platforms by 2026 to bolster networked fire control in joint operations. Hardware enhancements focus on expanding Sylver cell capacity on newer platforms, such as the Defence and Intervention (FDI) frigates, where the final two vessels will feature 32 cells—doubling the baseline 16-cell configuration of the first three—for improved salvo capacity against saturation threats. The initial three FDI frigates, including Amiral Ronarc'h, delivered in October 2025 with commissioning scheduled for 2026, are slated for retrofits to achieve this parity, ensuring consistent anti-air warfare performance across the class. Software improvements emphasize greater autonomy in missile engagement, with updates to combat management systems on FREMM-class (Aquitaine-class) enabling enhanced salvo coordination and compatibility with advanced radars like the Thales Sea Fire on FDI vessels. Recent live-fire tests in 2025 aboard a FREMM demonstrated successful Aster 30 intercepts using updated fire control algorithms. These initiatives are supported by the French Military Programming Law (LPM) 2024–2030, which allocates €413 billion overall for defense modernization, including naval sustainment and upgrades, with initial implementations on Aquitaine-class frigates commencing in 2025.

Prospective Integrations

The Sylver vertical launching system is poised for integration into several upcoming naval platforms, particularly within European programs emphasizing interoperability and enhanced air defense capabilities. Confirmed prospects include the Hellenic Navy's acquisition of a fourth FDI-class frigate, approved by the Greek Parliament in September 2025, with the contract signed in November 2025 and delivery anticipated around 2028; this vessel will feature an expanded configuration of 32 Sylver A50 cells for Aster 15 and 30 missiles, building on the three preceding ships already under construction. Similarly, the Italian Navy's FREMM EVO frigates, with contracts signed in July 2024 for two units set to commission starting in 2029, incorporate 16 Sylver A50 cells for Aster 30 Block 1NT missiles alongside 16 Sylver A70NG cells for MdCN cruise missiles, representing an evolution in multi-role strike and defense capabilities. Potential integrations extend to non-European programs exploring compatibility for missiles. The UK's program has undergone compatibility studies for hybrid Mk 41/ configurations to enable launches, aiming to enhance interoperability without full system replacement, though integration remains in early evaluation phases as of 2025. Export challenges for include stringent dual-use regulations akin to ITAR restrictions, limiting transfers to sensitive partners and requiring case-by-case approvals that can delay deals by years; however, opportunities arise in collaborative initiatives like the (), fostering shared production and reducing barriers for members such as and . New integrations are projected to commence between and 2030, driven by ongoing European builds, amid rising demand for modular air defense systems.

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