Ship to Shore Connector (SSC)

The Ship-to-Shore Connector (SSC) Program is a Navy initiative funded under Program Element (PE) 0605220N, designed to provide rapid movement of assault forces in littoral environments. Its primary objective is to replace the aging Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC) fleet, which began reaching the end of its service life in 2015. The SSC program supports the Joint Force Commander's ability to conduct amphibious operations and maneuver over challenging terrain such as ice, mud, rivers, swamps, and marshes. The program is structured to fund the detail design, development, construction, issue resolution, certification, integration, and testing of the SSC craft. The lead craft (Craft 100) is maintained as a test and training platform throughout its lifecycle.

Project 3133 focuses on the preliminary and contract design, as well as class test efforts for the SSC program. The goals for FY 2025 and FY 2026 include engineering development and design of end-of-life hardware and software replacements, technology enhancements such as M-code capable GPS receivers, Embedded GPS/Inertial Navigation System, Dismounted Assured Positioning Navigation and Timing System (DAPS), operating system updates, and critical cyber survivability improvements. This project also funds the development of Technical Data Packages for integrated vibration and health management systems, replacement and integration of condition assessment systems, and modernization of tactical radio transmission algorithms. It also supports completion of Initial Operational Test and Evaluation (IOT&E) and integration of secure communication and monitoring systems.

Project 3137 supports the Engineering & Manufacturing Development phase of the program, including detail design and construction, product support, government-furnished equipment, program support, outfitting, and post-delivery activities. The lead craft, Craft 100, serves as a test and training platform, enabling the Navy to evaluate proposed changes, conduct research and development for the LCAC class, and resolve maintenance issues. Recent funding has focused on sustaining Craft 100, supporting civilian crew operations, and implementing craft enhancements based on test results and operational feedback. For FY 2026, mandatory funds are allocated to sustainment of the test and training craft, as outlined in the Reconciliation Exhibit.

A significant objective for the SSC program in FY 2026 is to address critical cyber vulnerabilities and enhance the cyber survivability of LCAC C4N (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Navigation) systems. The budget increase in FY 2026 is specifically targeted at hardware and software updates to mitigate obsolescence and improve the performance and security of these systems. This includes integration of modernized transmission algorithms for tactical radios and upgrades to navigation and timing systems, ensuring the SSC fleet remains resilient against emerging cyber threats.

The acquisition strategy for the SSC program has involved multiple contract awards for the construction and delivery of SSC craft. The initial contract included options for additional craft, all of which have been delivered. Subsequent follow-on contracts have expanded the fleet, with recent awards supporting the construction of additional units through FY 2024 and options for further craft in FY 2025. The program leverages a combination of research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) funding, as well as shipbuilding appropriations, to support both the development and production of SSC platforms.

Test and evaluation activities are a core component of the SSC program, with developmental and operational testing conducted by agencies such as NSWC Panama City Division, SUPSHIP, Textron, IIMEF, and MCOTEA. These efforts ensure that new hardware, software, and system upgrades meet operational requirements and provide validated improvements in performance and survivability. The program also includes live fire testing and post-delivery trials to assess the effectiveness of enhancements and resolve any identified issues.