Universal Modular Masts for Virginia-class submarines are to be produced by L-3 KEO, an operating division of L-3's Integrated Sensor Systems business.

The contract for two shipsets, each comprised of eight individual UMMs, was issued by the U.S. Naval Sea Systems Command.

L-3 KEO said it is a multi-million dollar award but was otherwise not specific on its value.

"We are very pleased to have this opportunity to extend L-3 KEO's relationship with the U.S. Navy and continue our strong support for the nation's submarine force," said Matthew Richi, president of L-3 KEO. "As one of the industry's leading mast-raising equipment providers, we look forward to developing more product innovations for the U.S. Navy and allied international navies."

L-3 KEO said the contract contains options for as many as 10 additional shipsets and engineering services and spares.

The UMM -- 167 have been delivered by the company so far -- is the lifting mechanism for five different sensors: the photonics mast, high data rate mast, multi-functional mast, multi-functional modular mast and the integrated electronics support measures mast.