PEO USC

As the Department of the Navy executes the new Transformation Strategy, we are moving our pages to better align with the Portfolio Acquisition Executive model.

You can now find this content at: https://www.facebook.com/share/1NDedCP26P/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Since its standup in 2018, PEO Unmanned and Small Combatants has consistently delivered new and transformative naval capabilities to the Fleet—pushing advances in surface warfare, mine countermeasures, and unmanned and expeditionary systems at speed and scale.

In its acquisition wake, PEO USC has constructed an impressive legacy:

✅ Built and delivered 35 Littoral Combat Ships; managing two different ship designs across two competing shipyards. Both the Freedom and Independence variants now operate worldwide in response to Fleet tasking

✅ Developed, tested, and operationally deployed the Mine Countermeasures Mission Package, ushering in a new era of MCM operations and making history as the Navy’s first operational deployment of an unmanned Program of Record. The MCM MP is now deployed to 5th Fleet’s AOR and will next deploy to 7th Fleet

✅ Accelerated the development, experimentation, testing and prototyping of robotic and autonomous systems—of all sizes—to drive the Navy’s unmanned future

✅ Delivered hundreds of specialized support vessels, boats, craft, and associated systems whose everyday missions enable Fleet readiness and global operations

✅ Played a key role in advancing rapid fielding efforts to deliver unmanned capability in support of urgent warfighting needs

✅ Pioneered innovative acquisition strategies and pathways to get capability to the Fleet faster

Through it all, PEO USC has remained committed to its mission: Accelerate, Innovate, Deliver.

That momentum will continue into the future, as PEO USC moves under the new Portfolio Acquisition Executive (PAE) Maritime construct—enabling a more agile, empowered acquisition strategy focused on delivering ships and new capability to the Fleet with greater urgency and accountability.

As we transition and build on this legacy, follow along with PAE Maritime for the latest on the Navy’s acquisition efforts and the future of capability delivery to the Fleet.

Naval Sea Systems Command U.S. Marine Corps

Another Capability Delivered to the Fleet ⚓

The U.S. Navy has officially accepted delivery of the Navy’s sixth Auxiliary Personnel Lighter–Small (APL 72) Class berthing and messing barge from Bollinger Shipyards following the recent successful completion of Acceptance Trials. This marks another milestone in delivering mission-ready capability to our Sailors.

APL 72 will provide critical berthing and support infrastructure, enabling the Fleet to fulfill its commitment to taking care of our Sailors. The successful trials validate the platform’s performance and readiness to support operational demands from day one.

At 269 feet long, APLs serve as afloat berthing and support hubs, equipped with workspaces, medical facilities, fitness areas, and dining services capable of feeding more than 1,100 Sailors daily, with living accommodations for over 600 personnel.

💡 Why It Matters:
Delivering Boats and Craft to the Fleet is at the core of our mission. From expeditionary platforms to afloat support vessels, each delivery strengthens the Navy’s ability to operate forward, respond rapidly, and support Sailors wherever they serve.

Naval Sea Systems Command

A Next Generation Transition at Sea ⚓

Four decommissioned U.S. Navy Avenger-class Mine Countermeasures (MCM) ships — the former USS Devastator, USS Dextrous, USS Gladiator, and USS Sentry — have departed Bahrain aboard the merchant heavy-lift vessel Seaway Hawk, marking their final voyage.

For decades, these ships played a critical role in safeguarding maritime routes in the Arabian Gulf. Today, that mission transitions to the Independence-variant Littoral Combat Ships (LCS), reflecting the Navy’s continued evolution toward modern, flexible mine countermeasures capabilities.

Escorted by USS Canberra (LCS 30), currently deployed with U.S. Central Command U.S. Fifth Fleet, this moment bridges a proud legacy with our mission to deliver advance, next-generation mine countermeasures technology that strengthens maritime security for the warfighter.

Honoring the past. Advancing the future. 🚢



Naval Sea Systems Command Surface Warriors

Navy Contract Award Modification: Strengthening Testing & Evaluation Operations 🚤

The U.S. Navy has awarded Silver Ships Inc., a $6.7 million firm-fixed-price contract modification for the acquisition of 34 High-Speed Maneuvering Surface Targets (HSMST) craft and accessories. This modification builds on a previously awarded contract and advances delivery of reliable, mission-ready platforms.

💡 Why It Matters: HSMSTs are crucial for realistic naval training. These vessels simulate surface threats during critical test and evaluation exercises. HSMSTs are used in live-fire exercises and certification events, providing the Fleet with the necessary tools to maintain readiness against fast-moving surface threats.

From initial testing to fleet deployment, we’re delivering platforms that keep the Fleet secure and ready. ⚓

Naval Sea Systems Command WorkBoat

Driving the Future of the Fleet at ⚓

From U.S. Navy boats and craft, Littoral Combat Ships, and mine countermeasures to expeditionary programs, PEO USC shared key updates and engaged with Sailors, Marines, Coast Guardsmen, and industry partners at the Surface Navy Association’s 38th National Symposium in Arlington, Virginia.

These conversations reinforce our focus on delivering ready, relevant capability to the Fleet and advancing the technologies that will define tomorrow’s Navy.

We’re proud to continue driving progress and delivering next generation capability and solutions for the Navy’s combat ready warfighters. ⚓


Naval Sea Systems Command Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division Navy Expeditionary Combat Command

Join Us at SNA 2026 ⚓

Officials from PEO USC will provide program updates on U.S. Navy Boats & Craft, Littoral Combat Ship (LCS), Mine Countermeasures (MCM), and Expeditionary Missions in NAVSEA’s exhibit booth during the 2026 Surface Navy Association’s 38th National Symposium at the Hyatt Regency in Arlington, VA, Jan. 13-14.

Stop by, connect with the team, and learn more about how we’re , and capabilities across the Fleet!

Naval Sea Systems Command Surface Warriors Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division

Honoring a Legacy of Service in Mine Warfare⚓

PEO USC celebrated the retirement of Mr. Gary Jones, Deputy Program Manager for the Mine Warfare program office (PMS 495), marking the conclusion of a 37-year distinguished career in support to our Navy and Nation.

Throughout his tenure, Gary played a critical role in delivering and modernizing mine countermeasures (MCM) capabilities for the Fleet. His leadership spanned airborne, surface, and MCM mission package systems, ensuring timely delivery of MCM mission systems, advancing Littoral Combat Ship mission modules, and strengthening command and control capabilities across the mine warfare enterprise. His impact on acquisition excellence, systems integration, and Fleet readiness will be felt for years to come.

As we bid farewell to Gary, we also welcome Mr. Brian Amador from the Littoral Combat Ship Mission Modules program office (PMS 420) as the new Deputy Program Manager for PMS 495. We look forward to his leadership and continued momentum in advancing mine warfare capabilities for the Navy.

Fair winds and following seas, Mr. Jones—and welcome aboard, Mr. Amador!

Naval Sea Systems Command Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division

The final Independence-variant LCS, USS Pierre, Arrives At Its New Homeport in San Diego, CA 🎉🚢

We are proud to have delivered a warship that represents the hard work of manufacturers, suppliers and builders from across the nation culminating in a ship that will serve as the Navy's most versatile workhorse for years to come.

🚤 Calling All U.S. Boat & Shipbuilders — Join Us!

The U.S. Navy is hosting a virtual Industry Day on 10 December 2025 to discuss the upcoming Service Craft and Boats (SCB) Multiple Award Contract (MAC) — a $3.5 billion contract opportunity to procure a wide range of manned commercial-based, non-developmental boats and craft that support Fleet operations worldwide.

This MAC will cover platforms including:

• Utility and patrol boats
• Support vessels and small craft
• Non–self-propelled barges
• Additional waterborne platforms
• Plus larger floating structures — such as APLs and AFDMs — under a separate full-and-open portion of the contract

Whether you're an established Navy builder or a new entrant interested in supporting Fleet readiness, we welcome you to attend, learn, and ask questions.

📅 Date: 10 December 2025
⏰ Time: 1100 EST
💻 Format: Virtual (Microsoft Teams)
🔗 Join Here: https://dod.teams.microsoft.us/meet/993120672732?p=zFsAnmwDiIDj1F5Mrx
📝 No registration required — just click and join!

Attendance is voluntary and not required to participate in future solicitations.

Naval Sea Systems Command

🚢 A LCS legacy completed. A future underway. 🌊

The U.S. Navy has officially accepted delivery of the future USS Cleveland (LCS 31) from Fincantieri Marinette Marine in Marinette, Wisconsin — marking a historic milestone more than two decades in the making.

As the 16th and final Freedom-variant Littoral Combat Ship, Cleveland’s delivery caps a sustained, nationwide effort across Navy teams, industry partners, and program leadership dedicated to strengthening America’s maritime advantage.

“With the final Freedom-variant LCS now delivered, we celebrate the successful outcome of years of innovation and commitment,” said Melissa Kirkendall, PEO USC. “This highly capable and lethal warship is ready to assert maritime dominance and protect global waters with unparalleled precision and power.”

Following her commissioning in Cleveland, Ohio in early 2026, LCS 31 will join the Fleet in Mayport, Florida, supporting forward presence, maritime security, sea control, and deterrence around the globe.

Naval Sea Systems Command Surface Warriors Lockheed Martin City of Cleveland - City Hall