Turkish Ship-borne VLS to Launch Several Types of Anti-ship Missiles

The MIDLAS Vertical Launch System developed by Roketsan is on display at IDEX 2025 in Abu Dhabi, featuring Hisar-D RF, Siper and Atmaca missiles.

MIDLAS improves warships' firepower by enabling 360-degree missile launches while reducing radar visibility, writes Turkish publication SavunmaSanayiST.com.

MIDLAS, which recently entered service on the TCG Istanbul frigate, is being prepared for the launch of Atmaca anti-ship missiles. A model of this configuration was exhibited at the defense fair, highlighting plans to expand the system’s missile compatibility. The vertical launch system is expected to fire a variety of air defense, cruise, and anti-ship missiles in the future.

The exhibited model suggests a focus on integrating MIDLAS with platforms that have multiple vertical launch system (VLS) cells, such as the TF-2000 air defense warfare destroyer. Future developments may include sea and land attack missiles, particularly the Atmaca anti-ship missile. The system’s vertical launch capability is intended to reduce ships' radar cross-section while providing 360-degree engagement, an advantage over inclined launch ramps.

Most modern warships currently carry between 8 and 16 ready-to-fire anti-ship missiles. MIDLAS aims to enhance operational flexibility by allowing each VLS cell to be configured for anti-ship or cruise missiles, similar to how U.S. warships employ the Tomahawk cruise missile.

Roketsan’s ‘Attack Boy’ variant of MIDLAS is expected to incorporate some of these expanded capabilities. The Tactical Boy MIDLAS weighs 15 tons and measures 2x3x6.7 meters, while the Attack Boy MIDLAS weighs 18 tons with dimensions of 2x3x8 meters. Future adaptations could extend to launching torpedo ammunition, in addition to missile systems. Integration of Siper Block I and Atmaca into MIDLAS is ongoing.