BAE Systems was awarded a modification to previously awarded contract for MK 41 Vertical Launching System, the U.S. Defense Department announced on Thursday.

BAE Systems has received an $21,8 million contract modification to previously awarded contract N00024-13-C-5314 for the procurement of MK 41 Vertical Launching System MK 29 canisters, coding plugs, MK 7 explosive bolts, and MK 236 impulse cartridge assemblies.

According to the U.S. Defense Department, the MK 41 Vertical Launching System provides a missile launching system for CG 47 and DDG 51 class surface combatants of the Navy, Aegis Ashore, as well as surface combatants of allied navies.

The canisters provide rocket motor exhaust gas containment and a launch rail during missile firing. The canisters also serve as missile shipping and storage containers.

The contract, announced Thursday, combines purchases for the Navy (82 percent); and the country of Japan (18 percent) under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program.

The VLS Mk 41 capability to simultaneously prepare two missiles in each 8-cell launcher module allows for fast reaction to multiple threats with concentrated, continuous firepower. Multimode operation allows simultaneous interface and missile preparation for discrete antiaircraft, antisubmarine warfare, strike, naval surface fire support and ballistic missile defense missions.

The VLS Mk 41 is highly adaptable to accommodate the latest weapon types to meet new mission requirements.