Vertical Launch System Tube Trainer

The SSN688 Class VLS Tube Trainer will replicate an actual operational missile tube found onboard the ship. The tube trainer will be approximately five feet in length including the muzzle hatch. The trainer will have a hydraulically-powered muzzle hatch and fairing. The fairing lock cylinder will be manually, vice hydraulically, operated. It will have the capability of being loaded through the use of a tactical type Missile Tube Extension Loader (MTEL), associated Listing Adapter, and a MK 45 Dome Simulator Assembly. The trainer will have a 360 degree platform surrounding the tube muzzle which will accommodate a tactical loading crew and a Hydraulic Power Unit for the MTEL. The trainer tube will not be capable of being pressurized; however, the capability of performing tube tightness test will be conducted by using externally-mounted stimulation equipment and a Pressure Monitoring Test Rig. The trainer will also be populated with form/fit/function components including: Environmental Sensor, Differential Pressure Transducer, Weapon Control Umbilical Penetrator and associated Missile Tube Control and Weapon Control Umbilical Cables, Magnetic Switches and Magnets, and Pressure Vent Plug and Pressure/Vent Filter. A VLS weapon capsule, replicating the uppermost (approximately five feet) section of a tactical weapon capsule will provide loading crews the capability to perform actual loading exercises using the trainer.