L-3 Wins Australian LHD Communications Systems Subcontract

(NEW YORK) -- L-3 Communications (NYSE: LLL) announced today that it has signed a competitively-bid contract, valued at US$109 million, with Australian defense contractor Tenix to become the suppler of the communications systems for the Australian Defence Force's two new amphibious ships.

Under this 7-year award, L-3 will develop and deliver an integrated communication system for two Canberra-Class Landing Helicopter Dock (LHD) amphibious ships for the Royal Australian Navy. L-3's LHD communication system includes all external and internal communication subsystems, Maritime Tactical WAN, IT Networks, CCTV, Data Links, Entertainment and Training subsystems and the Broadcast & Alarm System. This role builds on L-3's successful on-time delivery of the integrated communication switching system for Australia's HMAS Sirius, commissioned to the Royal Australian Navy in September 2006.


"This contract represents a key win for L-3 in Australia and demonstrates the success of our strategy to expand our presence in international markets," said Michael T. Strianese, President and Chief Executive Officer of L-3. "The Australian Defence Force and Tenix are important customers for L-3 and we look forward to working with them both in the years to come."

Greg Roberts, President and COO of L-3 Communication Systems-East, added, "Our communication solution for Australia's LHD vessels achieves unprecedented levels of integration and automation to significantly reduce both acquisition cost and operation and maintenance expense. We have engineered this solution to provide a high degree of interoperability within the Australian Defence Force and also with coalition forces."

Mr. Roberts also noted that throughout the program, including the design and integration phases, L-3 plans to utilize local technical and support capabilities by working with Australian equipment suppliers.

Source : L-3 Communications