 In December 2014, the Navy's recommendation to base the Small Surface Combatant on upgraded versions of both "Independence" and "Freedom" LCSs was accepted.The SSC is an attempt by the Navy to increase the LCS' firepower and protection.Although Austal submitted improvements including vertical launch systems, 76 mm guns, and advanced combat systems and sensors, the Navy opted to keep the 57 mm gun, not add a VLS, and chose to add an upgraded 3-D radar.