Source: United States Navy
The Surface Warfare (SUW) Mission Package (MP) installed on the Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) provides fleet protection from small boats and other asymmetrical threats. The SUW MP can also be used to provide operational security in interdiction missions against terrorist suspects and high seas pirates and can provide defense against shore attacks while operating in the littorals. These capabilities, when joined together, permit the ship’s crew and the fleet commander to operate with confidence and address threats to the fleet while operating in the littorals and in constrictive environments. The SUW MP augments the core LCS sensor and weapons capabilities with gun, missile and aviation systems, providing a layered defense capability for rapidly detecting, tracking and prosecuting small boat threats. Ultimately, this MP enhances the safety of the Sailors while permitting the mission commander to maintain operational flexibility.