Surface and Shallow Water Mine Countermeasures

The Surface & Shallow Water Mine Countermeasures (MCM) program, funded under PE 0603502N, is a Navy Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E) initiative focused on advancing unmanned mine countermeasures systems. The goal of this program element is to develop, test, and field advanced technologies for minehunting, minesweeping, and mine neutralization to counter both current and emerging mine threats in surface and shallow water environments. The program supports mobile, rapid-reaction forces capable of conducting land-based or sea-based operations worldwide. This enhances the Navy's ability to maintain freedom of navigation, ensure maritime security, and support humanitarian and disaster response missions.

The Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) program is a primary component of this line item, with objectives centered on developing and integrating semi-autonomous USVs equipped with modular Mine Countermeasures (MCM) payloads. The USV program began as the Unmanned Influence Sweep System (UISS) and has expanded to include minehunting and mine neutralization capabilities. USVs are designed to operate from Littoral Combat Ships (LCS), vessels of opportunity, or shore sites, and are equipped with advanced situational awareness systems, including optical, radar, and GPS sensors. The program aims to provide detection, classification, localization, identification, and neutralization of mines, while also supporting influence clearance operations.

Key goals for the USV program in FY 2025 and FY 2026 include integrating advanced autonomy features such as transit and collision avoidance, developing Beyond Line of Sight (BLOS) operational capabilities, and improving force protection measures. The program is also focused on upgrading electronics configurations and enhancing mast designs to accommodate additional equipment. Integration of the Mine Neutralization Payload Delivery System (PDS) for deployment of the Barracuda mine neutralizer is a priority. Continuous engineering changes and software updates are planned to address fleet feedback and evolving cybersecurity requirements, ensuring the USVs remain adaptable and resilient in contested maritime environments.

Test and evaluation activities for the USV program are ongoing, with efforts in FY 2025 and FY 2026 dedicated to on-water testing of autonomy features, BLOS capabilities, and new payload integrations. These tests are essential for validating system performance, reliability, and compliance with updated operational requirements. The program also includes management services to oversee program planning, contract management, and requirements definition for new payloads and cost reduction initiatives.

The Barracuda program represents another major line item within this budget element, focusing on the development of an expendable, modular mine neutralizer. Barracuda is designed to be launched from the MCM USV as part of the LCS MCM Mission Package, with the capability to autonomously reacquire and neutralize previously detected near-surface mines. The system uses onboard sensors to search for mines, capture images, and communicate with operators for engagement decisions. Future enhancements may allow Barracuda to be launched from manned or unmanned aircraft and to neutralize mines in volume or on the seafloor.

For FY 2025 and FY 2026, the Barracuda program's objectives include completing contractor system qualification and performance testing, delivering Engineering Development Models (EDMs), and supporting government-led developmental and live fire testing. Engineering support activities focus on managing technical documentation, safety reviews, and integration with host platforms. The program also emphasizes government oversight of contractor testing and preparation of documentation to support acquisition decisions.

Both the USV and Barracuda programs are managed through a combination of contracts with industry partners and work performed by Navy warfare centers and laboratories. The acquisition strategies emphasize competitive contracting, phased development, and integration with existing Navy platforms. These efforts collectively aim to transform the Navy's mine countermeasure force from a platform-centric approach to a distributed, networked, and capability-centered force, enhancing operational flexibility and maritime access across the full spectrum of naval operations.