Navy completes first phase of SSMM after successful live-fire test

The Navy recently completed the first phase of developmental testing for the Surface-to-Surface Missile Module after conducting a live-fire exercise from a Freedom-variant Littoral Combat Ship.

The Milwaukee (LCS-5) fired four Longbow Hellfire missiles that struck fast inshore attack craft and targets, according to a service statement.

"This was the first integrated firing of the SSMM from an LCS," the statement reads. "Additionally, this was the second at-sea launch of SSMM missiles from an LCS."

SSMM uses the Army's Longbow Hellfire missile in a vertical-launch capability to counter small boat threats. The service anticipates fielding the new LCS capability in 2019.