
USS Indianapolis , shown here completing acceptance trials, was recently outfitted with C-UAS capabilities. (Lockheed Martin)
Freedom-variant littoral combat ship (LCS) USS Indianapolis (LCS 17) has been outfitted with counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) capabilities, the US Navy (USN) confirmed on 16 January in a statement released during the Surface Navy Association National Symposium 2025.
The LCS Mission Modules programme office upgraded both the software and hardware of the Surface-to-Surface Missile Module (SSMM) in the third quarter of 2024 to enhance the ship's defence posture while on deployment, the USN confirmed.
“Recent events in the US 5th 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 Captain Matthew Lehmann, programme manager of the LCS Mission Modules programme office, in the statement.
“By leveraging the adaptability of proven technologies in partnership with the Integrated Warfare Systems programme office, we were able to deliver on a critical need to the fleet,” he said.
“This rapid integration of C-UAS capabilities enhances our ability to project power and maintain freedom of manoeuvrein contested environments,” said Rear Admiral Kevin Smith, programme executive officer, Unmanned and Small Combatants.
For more information about USN C-UAS efforts, please see Surface Navy 2025: US notes C-UAS system testing to level ‘cost curve'.
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