Navy Showcases Historic At-Sea Reloading of Vertical Launch System

SAN DIEGO—In a significant leap for naval warfare capabilities, the U.S. Navy has successfully demonstrated the Transferrable Reload At-sea Method (TRAM) on a warship navigating open waters. This landmark event took place aboard the Ticonderoga-class cruiser USS Chosin (CG 65) off the coast of San Diego on October 11.

Utilizing the hydraulically-powered TRAM system, the crew effectively loaded an empty missile canister into the ship’s MK 41 vertical launching system (VLS). This is the first time such an operation has been performed at sea, highlighting the potential of in-transit missile rearmament for naval vessels.

Secretary of the Navy, Carlos Del Toro, witnessed this groundbreaking test. Expressing his enthusiasm, Del Toro remarked on TRAM’s potential as a transformative solution in naval combat readiness, emphasizing its role as a deterrent against competitors. “This demonstration is a pivotal milestone,” he stated, “paving the way for sustained operations at sea.”

Capt. James “Mike” Williams, commanding officer of the USS Chosin, praised the teamwork involved in the demonstration. The at-sea success builds on a previous land-based test conducted at the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Port Hueneme Division (NSWC PHD), earlier in July.

The TRAM system was developed at NSWC PHD to enhance the underway replenishment (UNREP) process, allowing vessels to rearm while still engaged in operations. “The combatant can maintain its combat presence, reducing downtime,” explained Rich Hadley, UNREP division manager at NSWC PHD.

During this test, the USS Chosin was linked with USNS Washington Chambers (T-AKE 11), which facilitated the missile canister transfer via cables. The TRAM device then maneuvered the canister into the VLS module swiftly and effectively.

Tim Barnard, director of the NAVSEA technology office, emphasized the strategic advantage of deploying TRAM across the logistics fleet. By allowing ships to reload without returning to port, the Navy could significantly increase its operational reach and efficiency.

The MK 41 VLS, crucial for rapid missile launches, serves aboard the Navy’s destroyers, cruisers, and future Constellation-class frigates. Secretary Del Toro confirmed plans to deploy TRAM across the fleet within the next two to three years, promising enhanced military readiness and strategic flexibility. Arizonanews.org