The US Navy has contracted DRS Technologies Canada, a Leonardo DRS, to deliver four additional Integrated Voice Communications Systems (IVCS) for their Aegis cruisers and destroyers.
The IVCS, also known as the Shipboard Integrated Communications System, or SHINCOM, is the latest generation shipboard communications switch technology which provides tactical communications for Navy operators.
The latest award is part of the Navy’s larger IVCS contract.
The computer-controlled telephone system connects to a ship’s announcing system, shore telephone lines, radio communications and certain battle sound-powered telephone circuits. It also has programmable features ranging from assigning priorities to calls to recording communications in a manner compliant with marine safety standards.
“We are delighted to again be tapped to provide these advanced systems for secure, reliable communications to enhance the mission of these important U.S. Navy ships,” said Martin Munro, Vice President and General Manager, DRS Technologies Canada Ltd. “This brings the total number of systems ordered up to 16 out of a possible 30 under our existing contract. It also underscores the great confidence the United States Navy has in the DRS system to provide vital communications management to its fleet of major surface combatants,” he added.
The IVCS/SHINCOM system is standard equipment onboard every US Navy cruiser and destroyer as well as Australian, Japanese and South Korean destroyers. In all, DRS Technologies Canada has installed these communications systems on over 150 warships world-wide.
Delivery of the systems is expected in September 2018.