The U.S. Navy’s Littoral Combat Ship Mission Modules program office has successfully delivered critical Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System (C-UAS) capabilities to the forward-deployed Freedom-variant littoral combat ship USS Indianapolis (LCS 17).

In Fall 2024, the program upgraded both the software and hardware of the Surface-to-Surface Missile Module (SSMM) to enhance the ship’s defense posture while on deployment. This rapid deployment of C-UAS capability underscores the flexibility of SSMM in addressing a range of threats, including surface, land and aerial challenges.

“Recent events in the U.S. 5^th Fleet Area of Responsibility (AoR) underscore the importance of equipping our warships with up-to-date C-UAS systems to keep emerging threats at bay,” said Capt. Matthew Lehmann, program manager of the LCS Mission Modules (PMS 420) program office. “By leveraging the adaptability of proven technologies in partnership with the Integrated Warfare Systems 80 program office, we were able to deliver on a critical need to the Fleet. This accomplishment showcases the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Littoral Combat Ship Mission Module Program.”

The SSMM is one of the three mission modules within the LCS Surface Warfare (SUW) Mission Package (MP). Originally designed to extend the range and number of targets that the LCS can engage using vertically launched Longbow Hellfire (LBHF) missiles to counter small boat threats, the SSMM has since demonstrated its ability to counter a variety of threats. In 2022, a modified version of the SSMM successfully executed a land attack demonstration.

“This rapid integration of C-UAS capabilities enhances our ability to project power and maintain freedom of maneuver in contested environments," said Rear. Adm. Kevin Smith, Program Executive Officer, Unmanned and Small Combatants. "By equipping LCS with advanced, flexible systems like the SSMM, we are not only addressing immediate threats but also strengthening the Navy's overall strategy for operational agility, deterrence and sustained dominance in littoral regions.”

PEO Unmanned and Small Combatants leads the Navy’s efforts to provide littoral combat ships with mission-tailored capability to Combatant Commanders to provide assured access against littoral threats, leveraging unmanned naval capabilities for enhanced operational effectiveness.

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