LCS In-Service Modernization

The LCS In-Service Modernization program is designed to enhance the operational capabilities of Littoral Combat Ships (LCS) through various modernization and maintenance efforts. The primary goals are to ensure these ships remain operationally ready and capable of meeting mission requirements. This is achieved through upgrades in safety, cybersecurity, habitability, and communication systems. The program supports both the Independence and Freedom variants of the LCS, focusing on maintaining their expected service life through planned Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) availabilities and long lead time material procurements.

A key objective within this program is the Lethality and Survivability (L&S) modifications. These modifications leverage existing Navy Program of Record systems to expedite combat system enhancements. The aim is to improve infrastructure, radar, tactical data links, cybersecurity, and navigation capabilities. By introducing commonality between LCS variants and other surface combatants, the program seeks to streamline training processes and reduce life cycle costs. Central to achieving these objectives is the use of Navy Standard systems such as the Total Ship Computing Environment (TSCE) and MK-20 Electro-Optical Surveillance System.

Additionally, the LCS Maintenance Modernization component addresses back-fit upgrades and obsolescence changes across seven categories: Safety, Strike Team, Obsolescence, Advanced Engineering Control System (AECS)/Advanced Machinery Control System (AMCS), C4I, Hull, Mechanical and Electrical (HM&E), and Navigation. This structured approach facilitates improved planning and tracking of ship changes as technology evolves. The program also includes developing Engineering Change Proposals (ECPs) for combat systems not covered by L&S upgrades.

The Combat System Lethality & Survivability Upgrades focus on integrating a common Combat Management System across both LCS variants. This involves procuring hardware and developing software packages necessary for system integration and testing. Installation resources are strategically allocated over a three-year period to accommodate design service allocation needs prior to availability. The upgrades are planned in alignment with CNO Availabilities to ensure seamless integration into existing maintenance schedules.