Navy calls on DRS for ship communications systems

DRS Technologies has won an $8.1 million contract from the Naval Sea Systems Command to provide ship communication network systems for the Arleigh Burke class destroyers, the company announced today.

DRS of Parsippany, N.J., will manufacture fiber-optic data multiplex systems to ensure interoperability among legacy and the latest commercial or militarized systems.

The fiber-optic data multiplex system is a general-purpose data network that converts and distributes hull, mechanical and electrical signals as well as Aegis combat systems signals. It is the interior backbone communications system on the destroyers.

Each fiber-optic data multiplex system transfers information among various systems, including machinery control, steering control, alarm, indicator, navigation, damage control, propulsion plan and combat systems. It is based on the Military Survivable Adaptable Fiber Optic Embedded Network standard.

The company's DRS EW and Network Systems unit in Buffalo, N.Y., will perform the work. The company will deliver products between October 2005 and April 2006.

DRS provides products and services for defense, government intelligence and commercial customers, has about 5,800 employees and annual sales of $1 billion, according to Hoover's Online of Austin, Texas.