SYLVER launcher
The
SYLVER is a vertical
missile launcher designed by
DCN. The launcher comes in several variants, each distinguished by their height. The A-43 was developed for launching short range surface to air missiles, the A-50 for the long-range PAAMS air defense system, and the A-70 launcher for larger missiles such as the Scalp Naval land attack cruise missile. The numbers refer to the approximate length of the missile which can be accommodated, in tenths of a metre - that is, the A-43 can hold missiles which are up to 4.3 metres long whilst the A-70 can accommodate missiles up to 7 metres long.
The launchers come in eight cell modules, with each module occupying six square metres of deck space.
The primary application of the launcher has been the
MBDA Aster missile. The SYLVER, together with the Aster, is the primary component of the
PAAMS naval anti-air warfare system. Using PAAMS, up to 8 missiles can be launched in 10 seconds.
The French Navy has initiated studies to convert the
SCALP EG missile to be capable of launch from the SYLVER. This missile, the SCALP Naval, would give
France a land attack capability in the mould of the
U.S. Tomahawk missile. It would also be attractive to the
Royal Navy, whose
Type 45 destroyers will be equipped with the SYLVER launcher.
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Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier - Nuclear aircraft carrier CV(N)
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Cavour aircraft carrier - Light
V/STOL aircraft carrier
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Horizon class frigates - French/
Italian anti-air warfare frigates
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Type 45 - UK anti-air warfare destroyers.
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La Fayette class frigates - Export version, possible upgrade of French ships.
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Vertical Launching System
