SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., 17 February 2005. General Dynamics C4 Systems has received a $13.3 million contract modification from the U.S. Marine Corps System Command (MARCORSYSCOM) for 16 additional unit operation centers (UOC), the mobile command-and-control operations centers that have become the focal point of Marine decision-making during all phases of ground warfare. The centers are expected to be ready for deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom by early 2006.
The order follows a December 2004 contract for 21 UOCs that also included funding for long-lead items for these 16 additional production units. All 37 recently ordered systems include engineering upgrades as a result of Iraqi combat operations feedback from Marine leadership.
"These latest orders are a clear indication that the UOC has become a critical component of the Marine Corps battlefield command and control network," said Manny Mora, vice president of Battle Management Systems for General Dynamics C4 Systems.
Pre-ordering items such as high-end computers and specially-designed cabling harnesses have shortened production time to enable faster deployment of these additional systems. To date, General Dynamics has delivered 15 UOCs, eight of which are deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
The original UOC contract was awarded in April 2002, and the first system was delivered in just over a year. The UOC deploys rapidly (sets up within 40 minutes), includes a network of workstations supporting standard Tactical Data Systems and other mission-critical software, and has large-screen displays that can take input from any workstation. The system integrates non-secure and secret voice and data communications, Voice Over Internet Protocol capabilities and networked servers. Tents, trailers, radios, power generation and other tactical hardware are also integrated for command and control that can be deployed via air, ground or sea.
General Dynamics C4 Systems is a leading integrator of secure communication and information systems and technology. With more than 9,000 employees worldwide, the company specializes in command and control, communications networking, space systems, computing and information assurance for defense, government and select commercial customers in the United States and abroad.
General Dynamics, headquartered in Falls Church, Va., employs approximately 70,200 people worldwide and had 2004 revenue of $19.2 billion. The company is a market leader in mission-critical information systems and technologies; land and expeditionary combat systems, armaments and munitions; shipbuilding and marine systems; and business aviation. For more information see www.generaldynamics.com or www.gdc4s.com.
