Lateral support system for canister-launched missile

A novel lateral support system for a canister launched missile is provided which is comprised of a plurality of long, narrow flexible pads of elastomer or like material disposed on the surface of said missile along a substantial lengthwise portion thereof and configured to substantially fill the annular gap between the missile and canister, each of said pads being hinged near the canister exit opening whereby the pads are peeled from the surface of the missile during launch thereof.