< img src = "/uploads/blogs/7e/6c/ib-1ipfdl100_df4a499e.jpg" Alt = "Lockheed Martin developers presented the MK70 launch system for Tomahawk" < p > Japan can obtain a license to produce an American containerized launch system MK70, which allows you to start the winged Tomahawk missiles and SM-6 anti-aircraft missiles from any ship or ground platform. This was reported by Lockheed Martin. The most likely partner is Mitsubishi Heavy Industries & mdash; The only licensed manufacturer of the MK41 VLS system in the world.
< p >The MK70 system, also known as & laquo; ammunition delivery system & raquo;, integrates the four-fold launcher MK41 into a standard 40-foot container. This approach allows you to quickly deploy rockets on platforms that were not originally intended for shock operations, including patrol ships or land units.
< p > in the US MK70 is already adapted to the needs of the army called Typhon MRC and the Marine Corps & Amp; MDash; as part of the mobile system Long-Range Fires. It is also actively testing the US Navy on LCS ships (Littoral Combat Ship). In particular, in 2023 the SM-6 rocket successfully started from the USS Savannah board, and the latest USS Nantucket ship was equipped with a MK70 system already at the time of commissioning.
~ ~ ~ < P > Using MK70 has two key benefits. First, it increases the number of tribal platforms, which complicates the planning and exploration of the enemy. Second, it allows flexibly redistribution of loads between ships & mdash; For example, when one destroys the target and the other only provides guidance. This significantly increases the combat survivability of the fleet.< P > Japan's interest in such decisions increases against the background of increasing the potential of the Chinese fleet. In 2024, Japan's self -defense forces (JMSDF) announced an open request for technical research on containerized launching plants of anti -ship missiles. It is likely to be a desire to equip new patrol ships (OPV) that do not have regular vertical launches.