The LAU-115 series guided missile launcher is a reusable launcher. It completes the F/A-18 aircraft suspension and launching system for the AIM-7 Sparrow missile.

 The forward internal grooves of the rail provide a guide and support for the forward missile-mounting button. The external rail flanges are a guide for the aft missile suspension lugs during firing. The aft section of the rail consists of a removable fitting that provides mounting for the aft missile suspension lugs.

The latch mechanism is composed of a detent cam and keeper. The detent cam is spring-loaded down and acts as a stop during missile loading. The cam mechanism is constructed so the force created by the missile motor during normal missile firing overcomes the detent cam spring tension. This action lets the missile button push the detent cam up, actuating the missile-gone switch.

An electrically operated solenoid is used to assure that the missile is retained during sudden deceleration, such as an arrested landing. The keeper portion of the latch mechanism is spring-loaded to the down position and retains the missile during all periods of aircraft acceleration. The keeper mechanism has an indicator. When the keeper is in the down or latched position, the indicator is flush with the launcher skin. If, during missile loading, the missile button is not in its maximum forward position, the indicator extends beyond the upper launcher mold line. This indicates that the missile is not properly latched in place. During loading, the missile button can slide past the keeper, stopping when contact is made with the detent cam. 

During the unloading of amissile, the indicator bell crank is supported in the launcher structure. Using a 3/8-inch square drive tool manually operates it. The square drive end of the bell crank is accessible from the side of the launcher. The launchers are suspended from BRU-32 bomb racks in the outboard pylons. Two LAU-7/A launchers can be attached for suspension of the AIM-9 missiles. For ground safety, an actuator-operated safety device prevents inadvertent loss of the AIM-7 missile.