Vessel from which missiles are launched (6)
I believe the answer is:
mortar
'vessel' is the definition.
(I know that mortar is a type of vessel)
I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for mortar that I've seen before include "Building adhesive" , "Bond for bricks; weapon" , "A short cannon for firing shells" , "Plaster a wall with it" , "Gun; brick bonder" .)