U.S. Navy press release
The MCM Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) is an unmanned, diesel-powered surface craft that can be launched from an LCS, vessel of opportunity, or shore. Its modular flexibility allows integration with multiple payload delivery systems that perform MCM missions, including minesweeping, mine hunting, and mine neutralization. By awarding these contracts, the Navy is ensuring it has the most advanced unmanned systems to effectively conduct mine countermeasure missions in the littorals.
The Navy awarded the first contract to Bollinger Shipyards for an MCM USV Advanced Material Order (AMO), valued at $7.7 million, which is expected to be completed in September 2025. This contract will procure items needed to improve the MCM USV based on findings from operational testing.
The Navy also awarded a production contract for the Minehunt Payload Delivery System (MH PDS) to Raytheon Technologies. This contract is valued at $18.3 million to produce five units with deliveries by the end of FY26.
Additionally, the Navy awarded a production contract for the Minesweep Payload Delivery System (MS PDS) to Textron Systems. This contract is valued at $12.1 million to produce four units, for delivery early in FY27.
“With the first deliveries of the MCM MP underway and deployments closely following, it is critical to ensure we have the contracts in place to procure and deliver the quantity of mission packages to the Fleet required in today’s changing world. These contract awards ensure our Littoral Combat Ships will continue to receive the modernized MCM equipment needed to conduct their missions, allowing our Sailors to operate safely and stay outside of the minefield.”
Capt. Matthew Lehmann, LCS Mission Modules program manager
Leveraging the flexibility of the MCM USV, the Minehunt and Minesweep Payload Delivery Systems integrate within the USV, enabling it to perform missions. The MS PDS provides acoustic and magnetic minesweeping capabilities to the MCM Mission Package, while the MH PDS uses the AN/AQS-20 sonar to perform mine hunting missions.
“These contracts are pivotal to ensure that the Navy’s LCS are equipped with the most advanced and reliable Mine Countermeasures capabilities. As we continue to face evolving threats in the littoral environment, these investments not only enhance our operational readiness but also demonstrate our commitment to safeguarding our Sailors and maintaining a competitive edge. By modernizing and expanding our MCM mission packages, we are providing our forces with the tools necessary to maintain access to key maritime regions and keep global shipping lanes safe.”
Rear Adm. Kevin Smith, PEO USC program executive officer
A part of the PEO USC portfolio within NAVSEA, the Navy’s LCS Mission Modules program office designs, develops, builds, and delivers the Navy’s unmanned maritime systems; mine warfare systems; special warfare systems; expeditionary warfare systems; small boats/craft; and small surface combatants.
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