U.S. Navy enhances Littoral Combat Ships with Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System capability

By Defence Industry Europe

The U.S. Navy has successfully delivered enhanced Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System (C-UAS) capabilities to the Freedom-variant Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) USS Indianapolis (LCS 17). This upgrade, part of the Surface-to-Surface Missile Module (SSMM), strengthens the ship’s ability to address emerging aerial threats during deployment.

 

In autumn 2024, both the software and hardware of the SSMM were upgraded to bolster the ship’s defence against a range of challenges, including surface, land, and unmanned aerial threats. The integration highlights the flexibility of the SSMM within the broader Surface Warfare Mission Package (MP).

“Recent events in the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Responsibility highlight the critical need for advanced C-UAS systems,” said Captain Matthew Lehmann, program manager for the LCS Mission Modules program office. “This accomplishment reflects the ingenuity and resourcefulness of our team in delivering essential capabilities to the Fleet.”

 

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Originally designed to extend engagement range against small boat threats using Longbow Hellfire missiles, the SSMM has demonstrated versatility in countering various threats. In 2022, it successfully executed a land attack demonstration, further showcasing its adaptability.

Rear Admiral Kevin Smith, Program Executive Officer for Unmanned and Small Combatants, underscored the strategic importance of the upgrade. “By equipping LCS with advanced systems like the SSMM, we are addressing immediate threats while enhancing the Navy’s ability to operate with agility and dominance in littoral regions,” he stated.

 

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The Navy’s Littoral Combat Ship program focuses on providing mission-specific capabilities to combatant commanders. Leveraging unmanned systems, these ships ensure operational effectiveness and strategic deterrence in contested environments, with the SSMM playing a pivotal role in maintaining superiority in littoral zones.

 

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