The US Navy's Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) Mission Modules programme office has integrated the upgraded Counter-Uncrewed Aircraft System (C-UAS) capabilities aboard the forward-deployed Freedom-class littoral combat ship USS Indianapolis (LCS 17). 

USS Indianapolis (LCS 17) was commissioned in 2019 in Burns Harbor, Indiana. 

The programme upgraded surface-to-surface missile module’s (SSMM) software and hardware in autumn 2024 to bolster the ship's defensive capabilities while deployed.  

This advancement displays the adaptability of the SSMM in countering diverse threats as well as marks a step in the Navy's ongoing efforts to modernise its fleet.  

Uncrewed and Small Combatants programme executive officer Kevin Smith said: “This rapid integration of C-UAS capabilities enhances our ability to project power and maintain freedom of manoeuvre in contested environments. 

“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.” 

The SSMM, a part of the LCS Surface Warfare Mission Package, was initially conceived to improve the ship's engagement range and target capacity with Longbow Hellfire missiles against small boat threats.  

However, in 2022, a modified version of the SSMM successfully conducted a land attack demonstration.  

The Program Executive Office for Uncrewed and Small Combatants continues to lead the charge in equipping littoral combat ships with these mission-specific capabilities, ensuring they can provide assured access and address threats in littoral zones.  

As a class of Small Surface Combatants, the LCS class is said to be a fast, agile platform designed for operations in near-shore environments, capable of countering modern coastal threats.  

It supports missions such as forward presence, maritime security, sea control, and deterrence operations. 

The class includes two versions: the Freedom variant and the Independence variant, each developed by two different industry teams.  

The Freedom variant features a steel monohull design and is built by Lockheed Martin at the Fincantieri Marinette Marine Corporation shipyard in Marinette, Wisconsin.  

The Independence variant, with an aluminium trimaran design, was initially constructed by a team led by General Dynamics Bath Iron Works. Presently, LCS of the Independence variant are produced by Austal USA at its shipyard in Mobile, Alabama.