LSD Midlife & Modernization

The LSD Midlife & Modernization program is a Navy initiative focused on extending the operational life and enhancing the capabilities of the LSD 41/49 Class ships. These ships play a critical role in amphibious assault operations, transporting and launching craft and vehicles, as well as supporting landings via LCACs, conventional landing craft, and helicopters.

The modernization effort is designed to address obsolescence, improve safety, and increase reliability. The goal is to ensure these vessels remain service-ready and capable of supporting evolving mission requirements.

The program's primary objectives include the procurement and installation of upgraded systems and equipment. A major focus is on the installation of Ballast Control Console (BCC) and Damage Control Console (DCC) systems. These upgrades replace legacy systems with programmable logic controller (PLC)-based digital, networked systems, addressing issues of system degradation, downtime, and reduced reliability. The new consoles are mission and safety critical, providing real-time ship status and parametric information, and supporting dynamic feedback for watch standers. The upgrades leverage the Advanced Engineering Control System (AECS) network backbone and Platform Independent Machinery Control System (PIMCS) software architecture.

Another significant component is the Slewing Arm Davit (SLAD) Installation, which involves replacing older boat davit systems with new SLAD units. The new SLAD design features a single-point pickup for boats, improving efficiency and safety during launch and recovery operations. Additionally, the SLAD Embarkation Platform Installation addresses space limitations in the 11M RIB stowage area, facilitating more effective loading and unloading of personnel, particularly during recovery operations.

The program also includes LSD MOD HM&E Conjunctive Alterations, which implement hull, mechanical, and electrical (HM&E) system upgrades to address maintenance-intensive areas and growing obsolescence. These alterations support safety and cyber-critical concerns, and are planned for execution on LSD 49, 51, and 52 during upcoming shipyard availabilities. The scope of work encompasses system engineering, equipment integration, and integrated logistics support, with specific upgrades to the BCC, DCC, and SLAD systems.

Additional objectives under the LSD Midlife & Modernization line item include the installation of C4I systems, combat system upgrades, and various mechanical and electrical improvements such as canned lube oil pumps, generators, low pressure air compressors, steering control systems, and deck cranes. These efforts are designed to enhance the overall operational effectiveness and survivability of the LSD class ships, ensuring they can meet current and future mission demands.

Funding for the upcoming fiscal year supports the commencement of one LSD modernization availability and the continuation of installations begun in the previous year. The budget request reflects a reduction in advisory and assistance services to promote cost efficiencies in alignment with Executive Order 14222. Installation funding is divided over a three-year period, with design service allocation occurring in the years prior to ship availability, and installation execution funding in the year of availability. This approach allows for effective planning, scheduling, and material procurement to support the modernization process.