LCC 19/20 Extended Service Life Program

The LCC 19/20 Extended Service Life Program (ESLP) is a Navy initiative funded under the Other Procurement, Navy account, focused on targeted modernization of various Hull, Mechanical, and Electrical (HM&E) systems onboard the Amphibious Command Ships LCC 19 and LCC 20. The program's primary objective is to extend the operational viability and mission effectiveness of these ships by addressing obsolescence, improving reliability, and enhancing command and control capabilities. The FY 2026 budget request supports these goals through a series of system upgrades and replacements, with emphasis on power generation, communications, and ship control systems.

A major component of the ESLP is the Ship Service/Emergency Diesel Generator (SS/EDG) Upgrade. This effort replaces the #1SS/EDG and #3SSDG with a new shock-qualified unit, increasing the ship's diesel generating plant capacity. This additional power is critical for supporting the ship's full operational functions and continuous C4I (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence) capabilities. The upgrade also includes dual redundant voltage regulators and modifications to the ship's power distribution system to ensure improved reliability and redundancy in electrical supply.

The Integrated Voice Network (IVN) Upgrade replaces the legacy ship telephone system with a ruggedized, modern communications solution. This upgrade aligns LCC 19 with the communications standards of other modernized amphibious ships. The new IVN system is designed to enhance command and control communications, supporting tactical employment of embarked forces and improving interoperability across the fleet.

Modernization of the General Announcing System is included, with the replacement of the existing 1/3/6 MC Announcing Systems by the AN/SIA-129 Digital Integrated Announcing System. This provides a technology refresh for one-way announcing systems, improving clarity, reliability, and maintainability. Additionally, the 21/24MC CAPT/FLAG CMD Intercom Replacement removes obsolete intercom units and installs Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) solutions to address reliability issues and ensure continued supportability.

The Ship Control System (SCS) Modernization replaces analog ship control equipment in the Pilot House, Steering Gear Room, and Engine Order Station with digital equivalents. This upgrade addresses obsolescence and delivers increased redundancy, accuracy, alarm management, and reduced maintenance workload for ship personnel. The Pilot House Redesign further enhances navigational operations and watchstander effectiveness by improving the bridge layout and integrating advanced display systems.

The ESLP also includes a broad package of upgrades targeting degaussing systems, automation controllers, bus transfer switches, water heaters, desalinators, boiler water level indicators, main feed pumps, logic consoles, lube oil control, and steam plant controls. These upgrades are intended to eliminate obsolescence, enhance operational safety, improve reliability, and ensure that ship systems remain effective through the end of their service lives.

Supporting these modernization efforts, the program includes engineering services, software development, cyber security hardening, and logistics documentation. Installation funding is phased over multiple years to accommodate ship availability schedules and port loading rates. The FY 2026 funding increase specifically supports the complex installation of the new generator sets during the LCC 19 Docking Selected Restricted Availability.