LCS Module Weapons

The LCS Module Weapons program is a Navy initiative under the Weapons Procurement, Navy appropriation, specifically focused on enhancing the Littoral Combat Ship's (LCS) surface warfare capabilities. The primary objective of this budget line item is to procure and sustain weapon systems and associated support equipment for the LCS Surface Warfare Mission Package (SUW MP). The program is designed to ensure that LCS platforms are equipped to counter fast, agile surface threats, particularly in littoral (near-shore) environments and strategic maritime choke points.

A central goal of the program is the procurement of Longbow Hellfire Missiles. These missiles provide the LCS with a fire and forget capability, utilizing a millimeter-wave seeker for autonomous target engagement. The Navy acquires these missiles from the Army's inventory, leveraging existing production lines to maintain cost efficiency and interoperability. The missiles are intended to counter enemy high-speed surface craft, especially those employing swarm tactics, thereby enhancing the LCS's ability to protect High Value Units (HVUs) during escort missions and other critical operations.

In addition to missile procurement, the program includes funding for ordnance handling equipment. This equipment encompasses a range of tools and machinery necessary for the safe handling, transportation, storage, and loading or unloading of the Longbow Hellfire missiles. Items include lifting caps, lifting straps, missile exhaust containment structures, shipping brackets and frames, test suites, maintenance stands, tilt fixtures, and simulation devices. The procurement of this equipment is responsive to evolving fleet requirements and the attrition or obsolescence of existing assets.

The program also allocates resources for consulting services. These services provide program management, engineering, technical support, and analytical studies to ensure the effective integration and sustainment of mission module systems. Consulting support is critical for ongoing evaluation of system performance, addressing emerging threats, and implementing improvements based on operational feedback.

The program's objectives are justified by the need to maintain a credible and flexible surface warfare capability in contested littoral environments. The Longbow Hellfire missile's autonomous targeting and rapid engagement features are particularly suited for the dynamic threat scenarios anticipated in these regions. The procurement strategy acquiring missiles from the Army and completing Navy-specific modifications supports both cost efficiency and timely delivery to the fleet.

For FY 2026, the budget reflects a continued but slightly reduced procurement rate, with a request for fewer missiles and associated equipment. This reduction aligns with broader Department of Defense efficiency initiatives, including a targeted decrease in advisory and assistance services in accordance with Executive Order 14222. The program remains focused on meeting Navy inventory objectives and ensuring that LCS platforms remain mission-ready.