The Canadian subsidiary of Virginia-based DRS Technologies is to provide communications systems support to Royal Australian Navy frigates.

The sub-contract for the support for ANZAC-class ships was given to DRS Technologies Canada Ltd. by Selex ES. DRS Technologies Canada Ltd. (TCL) is the primary subcontractor to Selex ES.

Under the subcontract DRS will provide all internal tactical and secure voice switching systems and terminals, including the SHINCOM 3100 central switching unit, wideband audio network data switching system, console dual screen terminals, outdoor terminals, jack-boxes and ancillaries for the frigates.

A total of eight ship sets will be produced by DRS as well as two shore systems.

"This is a tremendous opportunity for DRS TCL to deliver the SHINCOM 3100 system to the Royal Australian Navy, said Steve Zuber, vice president and general manager of DRS Technologies Canada.

"This system leverages the existing installed base with the Royal Canadian Navy and the United States Navy. This program will allow these navies to share key interoperability, technology and applications, ensuring that SHINCOM 3100 remains the premier internal communications system for years to come."

SHINCOM 3100 is the newest shipboard communications switch technology, enabling reliable tactical communications.