L-3 officials say the DSS achievement award was presented to their New Jersey-based Communication Systems-East facility. The Cogswell award, named after Air Force Col. James Cogswell, is given to companies that exceed in industrial security excellence.

The award is recognized in the security industry as the highest honor bestowed on a company contracted for handling classified information.

"The Cogswell Award is the ultimate security distinction for defense contractors, and we are very proud to be recognized by the Defense Security Service," Gregory Roberts, L-3 Communication Systems-East president and chief operating officer, said in a statement.

"This achievement underscores the unfailing commitment our employees have in supporting our war fighters and government customers."