Leonardo DRS has shipped the first next-generation Integrated Voice Communication Systems (IVCS) to power ship-wide communications across the US Navy’s Arleigh Burke DDG 51-class destroyers.
The advanced IVCS provide reliable, tactical communications for Navy operators, which are essential for the successful execution of various surface navy missions.
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This shipboard communications technology, is a computer-controlled telephone system that integrates with a ship’s announcing system, shore telephone lines, radio communications, and battle sound-powered telephone circuits.
Leonardo DRS has designed, built, tested, and delivered the IVCS as an upgrade to its portfolio of voice communication systems, including the shipboard integrated communications systems and secure voice switching systems.
Leonardo DRS Naval Electronics business unit senior vice-president and general manager Cari Ossenfort said: “This delivery marks a significant milestone in the ongoing partnership between Leonardo DRS and the US Navy, reaffirming the company’s commitment to supporting global naval operations with advanced, reliable and secure communication technologies.
“We are proud to continue to answer the call by fielding modern network communications supporting our warfighters today and into the future.”
The communication solutions are currently operational on destroyers and frigates of multiple navies, including those of Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea and the US.
Leonardo DRS has been a crucial supplier for the US Navy Cruiser and Destroyer Aegis Modernisation programme, providing mission-critical tactical communications systems that support command and control operations on these ships.
In 2017, DRS Technologies Canada was awarded a contract to deliver four additional IVCS for the US Navy’s Aegis cruisers and destroyers.
The US Navy announced plans in October 2024 to prolong the operational period of a dozen Arleigh Burke-class Flight I destroyers, surpassing their initially projected service duration of 35 years.
It follows thorough assessment of each DDG 51 Flight I ship (DDG 51-71) over a period of ten months.
The Navy has also included the necessary funding for these life extension efforts in its budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2026.
