As a major subsystem of the ship's combat system, the Mk 26 GMLS consists of a launcher, a magazine,

Figure 7-17.-Mk 26 GMLS with Mod differences. 7-22

and a launching system control. Depending on the Mod configuration of the system, 24 to 64 missiles are stowed vertically on the two rotating RSRs of the magazine. In response to remote or local commands, the system auto- or step-loads one or two missiles to the launcher. A firing rate of two missiles approximately every 9 seconds (with a 1-second salvo time delay) can be maintained.

The launcher is capable of unlimited train and may be elevated or depressed through an arc of 100. The elevation load position is about 90, with one train load position of 0 or 180 for forward- and aft-mounted launchers, respectively. The launcher must be within 20 minutes either side of the remote signal position to be synchronized with an FCS pointing order.

The launcher performs all missile preflight preparations like other GMLSs except for unfolding the missile fins. That action is accomplished in the magazine. Additionally, an adapter rail for the ASROC missile is not required on the Mk 26 GMLS.

The RSRs independently index the nearest selected missile(s) to the hoist position at one end of the magazine. When the RSR indexes a missile to the other end of the magazine, it aligns with the strikedown/ intertransfer mechanism. System on-load, off-load, and intertransfer (from one RSR to the other) operations are performed here.

The launching system control (fig. 7-18) is the brain of the launching system. Its electrical/electronic

Figure 7-18.-Launching system control components.

equipment controls all launching system operations in reponse to ship computer signals. The integrated control station (ICS), located below the launcher in front of the two RSRs, is the major component of the launching system control. All the control panels and equipment necessary to activate the system, monitor its operations, initiate local orders, and transfer automatic control to weapons control are in this compartment. In addition, the ICS houses all the testing and cycle monitoring equipment needed for maintenance procedures.

The ICS operator can communicate directly with other shipboard command stations through a 20-station ship communication network as well as sound-powered telephone circuits. Also, the operator can watch the whole operation of the launching system. Two special high-strength windows in the front of the ICS let the operator see into the forward parts of the magazine. A closed-circuit television system with two remotely located cameras allows the ICS operator to monitor on-deck actions and parts of the magazine not visible through the windows during all system operations.