L-3 to Upgrade MCS for MSC's T-AOE Fast Combat Support Ships

(New York, February 24, 2010) -- L-3 Communications (NYSE: LLL) announced today that it has been awarded a contract to replace the Machinery Control System (MCS) on Military Sealift Command's (MSC) T-AOE Fast Combat Support Ships. The total contract, valued at more than $40 million, includes design, manufacturing and testing of the new equipment for one ship, with options for the remaining ships of the class.

Additionally, the contract designates L-3 as the turn-key provider for the design, build, test, integration, installation, commissioning, and spares for the ship's new machinery and cargo control system.


"This is an exciting win for L-3 as it exemplifies the broad capability of the Marine & Power Systems Group to provide low-risk, complete solutions for our customers," said Steve Kantor, president of the Marine & Power Systems Group. "We are extremely pleased to be selected and are committed to providing MSC with a modern, open architecture, state-of-the-art control system solution that allows optimal manning, efficiency, safety, and is supportable for the life of the ship."

The L-3 Machinery Control System will provide remote monitoring, control and automation of the ship's propulsion, electrical, cargo handling and auxiliary systems. The system uses commercial Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) technology combined with L-3's proven control system software.

MSC's four fast combat support ships provide a vital service to the U.S. Navy by providing underway replenishment of fuel, ammunition, food, and other cargo. The 48,500 ton, 754-foot long, T-AOE 6 Class ships are able to simultaneously transfer fuel, ammunition, and stores to ships in carrier groups, reducing vulnerability of serviced ships by minimizing at-sea alongside time.

Source : L-3 Communications Holdings Inc. (NYSE: LLL)