L-3 Communications' Vertex Aerospace division has started contractor logistics support for the U.S. Air Force KC-10 tanker fleet.

The support, awarded in a contract in June, was delayed by a competitor protest, which has now been denied by the U.S. Government Accountability Office.

The estimated value of the firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract is expected to reach $1.9 billion over a 9-year performance.

"As a CLS [contractor logistics support] provider, L-3 is committed to delivering excellent performance to the Air Force," said Michael T. Strianese, L-3's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "This KC-10 contract award gives L-3 the opportunity to provide the Air Force and a key international ally with engineering innovation and affordable, best value solutions and services."

L-3 said that under the award Vertex Aerospace will provide contractor operated and maintained base supply, field service representative and depot maintenance support for 59 USAF KC-10 aircraft, as well as support for the aerial refueling system for two Royal Netherlands Air Force KDC-10 aircraft.