L-3 Communications announced today it has signed a contract, valued at $109 million, with Australian defense contractor Tenix to be the suppler of the communications systems for the Australian Defence Force’s two new amphibious ships. Under the seven-year award, L-3 will develop an integrated communication system for two Canberra-class landing helicopter dock (LHD) amphibious ships for the Royal Australian Navy. L-3's LHD communication system includes all external and internal communication subsystems, maritime tactical WAN (wide area network), information technology networks, CCTV, data links, entertainment and training subsystems, and a broadcast and alarm aystem. The company developed the communication switching system for Australia’s HMAS Sirius, commissioned to the Royal Australian Navy in 2006. Greg Roberts, president and chief operating officer of L-3 Communication Systems-East, said L-3 plans to work with Australian equipment suppliers throughout the program, including the design and integration phases. For more information, visit: www.L-3Com.com