Combatant Craft Systems

The Combatant Craft Systems program, managed by the United States Special Operations Command, aims to enhance the surface mobility capabilities of Special Warfare Combatant Crewmen. This initiative includes various craft categories such as Combatant Craft Assault (CCA), Combatant Craft Medium (CCM), and Combatant Craft Heavy (CCH), along with associated systems and equipment. The primary objective is to ensure these crafts are equipped for special operations missions across diverse threat environments, supporting the strategic goals outlined in the 2022 National Defense Strategy.

The Combatant Craft Medium (CCM) is designed for long-range, high-payload operations in contested maritime environments. It supports missions like Maritime Interdiction and Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) operations. With capabilities including a 40-knot speed and a range of 600 nautical miles, the CCM is a versatile asset for Naval Special Warfare. The program emphasizes integrating advanced communication systems and sensor suites to enhance operational effectiveness.

Combatant Craft Heavy (CCH) serves as a semi-submersible platform for sensitive intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions. Its fully enclosed design and climate-controlled environment optimize it for strategic competition scenarios. Current efforts focus on procuring new craft units and implementing engineering changes to maintain its competitive edge in contested maritime zones.

The Combatant Craft Forward Looking Infrared 2 (CCFLIR 2) system enhances situational awareness by providing multi-sensor electro-optic capabilities. This system supports the detection and tracking of objects in maritime settings, aligning with strategic competition imperatives. Plans include procuring additional CCFLIR 2 systems to increase fleet interoperability and functionality across various combat craft platforms.