| MiDLAS vertical launching system | |
|---|---|
 Scale model layout of the MiDLAS VLS inIstanbul-class frigate | |
| Type | Missile launching system |
| Place of origin | Turkey |
| Service history | |
| Used by | Turkish Naval Forces |
| Production history | |
| Designed | 2020s |
| Manufacturer | Roketsan |
MiDLAS (an acronym forMilli Dikey Atım Lançer Sistemi; English:National Vertical Launch System) is avertical launching system (VLS) developed and manufactured by the Turkish defense contractorRoketsan for theTurkish Navy. It is designed to store and fire a variety of guided missiles, including surface-to-air, surface-to-surface, and anti-submarine warfare missiles from naval surface combatants and potentially submarines.[1]The system was developed as a domestic alternative to the AmericanMark 41 VLS following export restrictions. It was first integrated into theTCG İstanbul (F-515), the lead ship of theIstanbul-classfrigates.[2] The VLS system is also offered for export.[3]
The development of MIDLAS began to ensure the independence of the Turkish Navy's strike capabilities. While theAda-class corvettes were designed without a vertical launch system, the subsequentIstanbul-class frigate program initially planned to utilize the US-madeMk 41 VLS. However, following the imposition ofCAATSA sanctions by the United States on Turkey in 2020, the procurement of the Mk 41 became restricted.[4] In response, Roketsan accelerated the development of a domestic launcher that could interface with the Turkish-designedADVENT combat management system.
MiDLAS is a modular, below-deck launching system featuring an open architecture that allows for the integration of various missile types. It uses a canister-based storage method, where missiles are loaded into individual cells. The system is designed to support both "hot launch" (where the missile ignites within the cell) and "cold launch" (where the missile is ejected by gas before ignition) techniques, although current integrations primarily utilize hot launch.[1]The system communicates with the ship's combat management system via Ethernet, specifically the Turkish Navy's network-enabled ADVENT system.[2]
Roketsan produces MIDLAS in two primary vertical configurations, along with single-cell variants for flexible deployment:
A standard module consists of 8 cells with a footprint of approximately 6 square meters. The system supports "quad-packing," potentially allowing up to 32 smaller missiles to be carried in an 8-cell module.[2]
MIDLAS is designed to be compatible with a wide range of indigenous Turkish missiles:
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