L-3 Communications has been contracted to deliver switchgear equipment to support the U.S. Navy's Ohio-class submarine replacement program.

Under the contract, L-3 will design and qualify the switchgear to support the power distribution and protection system for the new generation of submarines. The agreement includes a follow-on delivery option that will extend to 2035 if the Navy constructs all currently planned vessels.

"This is an important contract for L-3 because it demonstrates our ability to meet evolving naval requirements with optimal reliability and performance," L-3 CEO Michael Strianese said in a press release.

The Ohio-class replacement program, also known as the Columbia-class program, is an effort to replace aging undersea vessels with more technologically advanced submarines. Navy officials expect construction to begin in 2021, with the new class of submarines to serve through 2085.

"Our expertise is in electrical protection and distribution equipment that is designed for harsh and rugged environments," L-3 SPD Electrical Systems president Christine Montalvo said. "We've spent two years investing in conceptual designs and improving upon key elements, including electrical performance, weight and reduced cost, and are excited to have won this rigorous competition."