CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa, Dec. 19 (UPI) -- Rockwell Collins reports it will upgrade U.S. Navy E-6B aircraft under a $54 million option to a full-rate production contract.
The Block I Modification is an open system approach for mission avionics and includes a Voice over Internet Protocol Intercommunications System and an on-aircraft, multi-level secure network for message processing, radio control/monitoring and other mission applications.
The initial $54 million award is for procurement of the material, installation and associated activities for three aircraft. The total program includes production engineering support, field service support, operator and maintenance crew training classes and maintenance trainer updates. The overall contract's still unexercised options are worth $241 million.
"This upgrade brings many new capabilities to the Navy, including better communication and mission capabilities, and plays a key role in providing reliable and survivable communications between our nation's leadership and U.S. strategic forces," said Dave Nieuwsma, vice president and general manager of Airborne Solutions for Rockwell Collins.
