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Leonardo DRS Delivers Next-Generation IVCS Communication System to US Navy for Arleigh Burke-Class Destroyers.
Leonardo DRS, a company specializing in defense communication and electronics systems, has announced the delivery of its first next-generation Integrated Voice Communication System (IVCS) for the U.S. Navy's Arleigh Burke-class destroyers (DDG 51). This system plays a key role in onboard communication, ensuring seamless and secure operations across all surface fleet missions.
The USS Arleigh Burke (DDG-51) is the first ship of the Arleigh Burke-class Aegis guided-missile destroyers. (Picture source: WikiCommons)
The IVCS represents the latest evolution in shipborne communication technologies, providing Navy operators with reliable tactical communications. This computerized telephone system integrates with a ship’s announcement network, shore telephone lines, radio communications, and battle sound-powered circuits, facilitating efficient transmission of operational information throughout the vessel.
The Arleigh Burke-class destroyers form the core of the U.S. Navy’s surface combat fleet. Designed around the Aegis Combat System and AN/SPY-1D radar, these versatile ships can conduct air defense, land strikes, anti-submarine warfare, and surface warfare. Measuring between 505 and 509.5 feet (154 to 155.3 meters) in length and displacing between 8,300 and 9,700 tons depending on the variant, they are powered by LM2500 gas turbines delivering a total output of 105,000 horsepower, enabling speeds exceeding 30 knots. Through successive technological enhancements—from Flight I to the latest Flight III versions—these ships have improved their detection capabilities, ballistic missile interception, and integration into joint operations.
Their armament includes a wide array of missile and gun systems, notably the Mk 41 vertical launch system, which accommodates up to 96 cells armed with SM-2 and SM-6 surface-to-air missiles, ESSM, Tomahawk cruise missiles, and ASROC anti-submarine missiles. They are also equipped with a Mk 45 127mm naval gun, Phalanx CIWS, and Mk 32 torpedo launchers. Defensive systems include advanced electronic warfare suites such as the AN/SLQ-32, anti-torpedo countermeasures, and Nulka decoys. The latest versions, including Flight III, are fitted with the AN/SPY-6 radar, enhancing detection and engagement capabilities against aerial and ballistic missile threats, reinforcing their role in missile defense operations.
Developed as an enhancement of previously fielded Leonardo DRS communication solutions, the IVCS builds on systems such as the Shipboard Integrated Communications Systems and Secure Voice Switching System. These technologies are already operational on destroyers and frigates in the U.S., Canadian, Australian, New Zealand, Japanese, and South Korean navies, reinforcing the company’s position as a provider of secure naval communication solutions.
The announcement of this delivery highlights the long-standing collaboration between Leonardo DRS and the U.S. Navy, demonstrating the company's commitment to supporting naval operations with modern, reliable communication technologies. Cari Ossenfort, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Leonardo DRS Naval Electronics, emphasized the importance of this milestone, noting that the system will provide enhanced and secure communication capabilities for naval forces.
As a key supplier for the U.S. Navy’s Aegis modernization program for cruisers and destroyers, Leonardo DRS delivers tactical communication solutions essential for command-and-control operations. The company’s expertise extends beyond naval applications to land, air, space, and cyber domains, covering sensing, force protection, computer networks, and power and propulsion systems.
With this delivery, Leonardo DRS strengthens its role in modernizing the U.S. Navy’s communication infrastructure, improving the operational capabilities of Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, and enhancing interoperability with allied naval forces that integrate these advanced systems.