LCS Mission Modules

The LCS Mission Modules program, designated as Program Element (PE) 0603596N, is a Navy Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E) initiative focused on developing, integrating, and fielding modular mission packages for the Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) platform. The overarching goal is to provide the LCS with flexible, rapidly upgradable capabilities to address evolving threats in littoral environments. The program leverages an open-systems architecture and modular design, allowing for the insertion of mature technologies and new operational capabilities without requiring modifications to the ship's core structure. This approach supports cost-effective modernization and ensures alignment with joint warfighting objectives.

The Mine Countermeasure (MCM) Mission Package is a key component of the LCS Mission Modules program. Its primary objective is to enable the LCS to detect, classify, and neutralize bottom, tethered, near-surface, and surface mines in coastal waters without exposing sailors to minefields. The MCM package employs a combination of unmanned surface vehicles, helicopters, and unmanned aerial vehicles, integrated with advanced sensors and neutralization systems. These systems include the Airborne Laser Mine Detection System, Airborne Mine Neutralization System, and Barracuda neutralizer. Efforts in upcoming fiscal years include incremental improvements to the MCM system, integration of new modules, software upgrades, and development of modular concepts for multi-ship operations and vessel-of-opportunity deployments.

The Surface Warfare (SUW) Mission Package aims to enhance the LCS's firepower and defensive capabilities against fast, highly maneuverable small craft and support maritime security operations. The SUW package consists of the Gun Mission Module with 30mm cannons, an Aviation Module leveraging helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles for long-range detection and engagement, the Maritime Security Module for Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure operations, and the Surface-to-Surface Missile Module equipped with missiles. Recent efforts focused on design revisions, with future plans transitioning to sustainment and integration of mature capabilities rather than new development.

LCS Mission Package Development encompasses the common equipment and enabling technologies required by all mission packages, with a particular focus on Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Cyber, and Intelligence (C5I) systems. Key objectives include the development and integration of the Mission Package Computing Environment, Multi-Vehicle Communications System, aviation interface systems, and portable control stations. Planned activities include technology refreshes, cybersecurity enhancements, integration of new unmanned vehicle control capabilities, and improvements to portable control stations to support vessel-of-opportunity operations and emerging fleet architectures.

The program's incremental acquisition strategy is designed to facilitate rapid fielding of new capabilities as technology matures, supporting ongoing modernization and flexibility. This phased approach allows for the continuous introduction of mature systems into mission packages, ensuring the LCS remains capable of meeting baseline requirements as defined in the Capability Development Document. The strategy also enables the Navy to respond to emerging threats and operational needs by integrating new modules and technologies as they become available.

Funding adjustments reflect increased investment in unmanned surface vehicle trials and communications upgrades, balanced by reductions in advisory services and workforce optimization in alignment with executive orders on government efficiency. The program is executed by a combination of Navy warfare centers, industry partners, and supporting agencies. These entities collaborate on product development, integration, testing, and program management to ensure mission package readiness and operational effectiveness.