LCS Common Mission Modules Equipment

The LCS Common Mission Modules Equipment program is a critical component of the Navy's Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) initiative, supporting the procurement and modernization of mission modules that enable LCS platforms to perform specialized missions such as Mine Countermeasures (MCM), Surface Warfare (SUW), and Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW). The primary goal is to provide operational commanders with flexible, rapidly reconfigurable capabilities through modular mission packages, which include specialized equipment, support containers, communications systems, and training devices. This approach allows the Navy to adapt LCS vessels to evolving mission requirements in littoral and near-shore environments.

A central focus of this budget line is the Mission Package Computing Environment (MPCE), with objectives centered on technology refresh, cybersecurity enhancements, and alignment with open architecture standards such as the Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) and Navy Open Architecture Computing Environment (OACE). MPCE provides the computing backbone for mission package command and control, supporting both legacy and future tactical software. The request continues procurement of MPCE 2.X hardware, which improves data extraction, encryption, virtualization, and rack space efficiency, ensuring compatibility with planned LCS lethality and survivability upgrades.

Training Equipment is another significant objective, ensuring that LCS crews are proficient in the operation, maintenance, and tactical employment of mission modules. This includes the procurement and modernization of Common Mission Package Trainers (CMPT), Mission Package Training Systems (MPTS), and Integrated Tactical Trainers (ITTs) at key training facilities in San Diego, Mayport, and Dam Neck. These training systems replicate LCS mission bays and enable hands-on practice with launch, recovery, and handling procedures for unmanned vehicles and mission systems. They support the Navy's Train to Qualify and Train to Certify objectives for LCS crews.

Containers (Shipping & Support) are procured to house and transport mission systems and their associated support equipment. These containers, compliant with International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards, are essential for the modularity and rapid reconfiguration of LCS mission bays. The budget supports both MCM and SUW support containers, which store tools, spares, consumables, and personal protective equipment required for deployed operations. The procurement plan is aligned to outfit LCS ships configured for MCM and SUW missions.

Procurement of the Multiple Vehicle Communications System (MVCS) aims to enhance the LCS's ability to simultaneously communicate with multiple unmanned surface and undersea vehicles. Funding supports a technology refresh for MVCS, including upgrades for beyond-line-of-sight communications, software-defined radios, anti-jamming capabilities, and cross-domain solutions to meet National Security Agency (NSA) security requirements. These improvements are vital for maintaining secure, reliable command and control of off-board systems during complex littoral operations.

Mission Module Display Modernization addresses hardware obsolescence and provides the display resolution and processing power required for effective mission package operations. The modernization effort replaces legacy consoles with updated hardware that supports advanced post-mission analysis and improved operator interfaces, particularly for MCM mission packages. This ensures that LCS crews have access to reliable, up-to-date control systems as older commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components become unsupportable.

Consulting Services and Production Engineering Support are funded to provide program management, technical support, and engineering analysis necessary for the integration and sustainment of mission modules. These services ensure that the LCS Common Mission Modules Equipment program remains responsive to fleet requirements, incorporates lessons learned, and adapts to emerging threats and technology trends.