L-3 Communication Systems-East Delivers First Integrated Communications System for the US Navy’s Virginia-Class Block III Submarine

Graphic by Ron Stern

Tuesday, October 11, 2011 by L-3 Communication Systems-East

L-3 Communication Systems-East (L-3 CS-East) announced today that it has delivered the first Integrated Communications System (ICS) for the US Navy's Virginia-Class Block III SSNs to General Dynamics-Electric Boat. This advanced communications system has passed environmental and performance qualification tests, and will be installed in all Block III submarines, starting with SSN 784. L-3 CS-East's ICS will increase the submarine crew's situational awareness and communications mobility through integration of multiple voice systems on one highly reliable network.

"This system is based on our field-proven MarCom® Integrated Communications System and KITE tactical terminals," said Val Snyder, president of L-3 Communication Systems-East. "We are proud to supply the US Navy's most advanced submarine and her crew with this state-of-the-art communications system, providing critical situational awareness for complex mission operations. L-3 also looks forward to continuing our relationship with GD-Electric Boat."

This ICS delivery continues L-3 CS-East's rich heritage of supplying communications systems for US Navy submarines, including the original Automated/Integrated Radio Room for Ohio Class SSBNs and the Radio Room Automated Baseband Communications System for the US Navy's Los Angeles Class SSNs. From shipboard experience with Aegis DDGs and CG Modernization, LPD-17, LCS and the US Coast Guard National Security Cutter programs to submarines, L-3 CS-East is proud to support the communication needs of the US Navy and US Coast Guard.