Harpoon Support Equipment

The HARPOON Support Equipment program, detailed in Line Item 5227 of the Department of the Navy's FY 2026 budget request, is focused on supporting the reconstitution and integration of Encapsulated (ENCAP) Harpoon Block IC missile systems for Los Angeles-class (688) submarines. This initiative is managed under the direction of the Undersea Warfare Division (N97) and aims to restore a critical over-the-horizon surface strike capability for the submarine fleet. The primary objective is to refurbish and recertify 64 ENCAP Harpoon missiles, which have been in deep storage since 1996, and deliver them to operational units to address current Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW) capability gaps.

The program specifically targets procurement and support activities necessary to bring these retired missile systems back into service. The ENCAP Harpoon missiles, stored at the Letterkenny Army Depot, are candidates for refurbishment due to their preserved material condition, which allows for efficient recertification. The refurbishment process will restore these All Up Rounds to a war ready status, ensuring they meet the operational requirements of the submarine fleet. This rapid reconstitution is justified by the urgent need to provide submarines with stand-off strike capabilities against enemy surface and amphibious action groups.

In addition to missile refurbishment, the HARPOON Support Equipment line item includes funding for shipboard software updates on submarines receiving the ENCAP Harpoon missiles. These updates are essential for integrating the refurbished missiles into the submarines' fire control and launch systems. The software modifications enable the launchers to accommodate the ENCAP Harpoon, ensuring seamless operational deployment and enhancing the fleet's overall strike effectiveness.

The funding supports Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) activities, which are required to re-integrate ENCAP Harpoons into submarine databases and firing systems. This ensures that all technical and logistical aspects of the missile reconstitution are addressed, minimizing risks associated with reintroducing legacy systems into active service. The budget reflects a reduction from the previous year to optimize civilian personnel in compliance with Executive Order 14210, which mandates government workforce efficiency.

The Harpoon Support Equipment Support Costs subline further details the allocation of resources for ILS, software updates, and other necessary support functions. These costs are distributed across several fiscal years, with expenditures in FY 2024, FY 2025, and FY 2026 reflecting the phased approach to missile refurbishment and integration. The program does not include advance procurement or initial spares, as the focus is on restoring existing assets rather than acquiring new ones.

The objectives of the HARPOON Support Equipment program are to rapidly fill a time-sensitive ASuW capability gap, meet Speed to the Fleet requirements, and optimize the use of existing resources. By leveraging preserved ENCAP Harpoon missiles and updating submarine systems, the Navy aims to enhance its ability to project power and deter adversaries in contested maritime environments. The program is structured to deliver operational capability efficiently, with careful attention to cost management and workforce optimization.