DRS Technologies Receives First Task Order Valued at $20 Million From the U.S. Navy As Part of Current Contract to Provide a Communications Network for Troops Deployed Overseas
DRS Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: DRS) announced today that it received its first task order valued at $20 million as part of a current Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (ID/IQ) $250 million contract, including options, the company received this past August from the U.S. Navy’s Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center (SPAWAR) Charleston in South Carolina.
As part of this task order, DRS will provide a satellite-based internet-broadband service and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) network entitled MWRnet (Morale, Welfare, and Recreation Network). MWRnet will enable military personnel deployed overseas to stay connected with family and friends back home in the United States.
The network will assist military personnel deployed within the areas of responsibility of United States European Command, Central Command, Pacific Command, African Command, and other locations tasked by SPAWAR Europe.
The work for this and future task orders will be accomplished by the company’s DRS Technical Services unit in Herndon, Virginia. The unit will complete all network engineering, systems integration, installation, and testing to ensure continuous connectivity. MWRnet will provide phone service, e-mail, Internet access and video chat capabilities. Deployed troops will be able to use this network to stay in touch and maintain personal connections, complete educational pursuits, and access other Internet resources.
“Satellite communications has not only become a mission essential for military tactical operations in the 21st Century, it has become a vital tool to help the morale of warfighters deployed overseas,” said Dr. Mitchell B. Rambler, president of DRS’ Technical Services business segment. “DRS takes great pride knowing that we will provide the network that can help families stay connected.”
SPAWAR is the Navy’s Command, Control, Communications, and Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) command for acquisition and life-cycle management of naval communications and warfare systems. Its mission is to acquire, develop, deliver and support integrated & interoperable C4ISR products and systems, business information technology and space capabilities in the interest of the United States’ national defense.
DRS Technologies, headquartered in Parsippany, New Jersey, is a leading supplier of integrated products, services and support to military forces, intelligence agencies and prime contractors worldwide. The company employs approximately 10,000 people. For more information about DRS Technologies, please visit the company’s web site at www.drs.com.