L3 buys big data firm focused on national security

L-3 Communications has acquired Data Tactics in a move that bolsters its data analytics and cloud computing capabilities in the national security market.

L-3 Communications has acquired Data Tactics Corp. in a move that bolsters L-3's data analytics and cloud computing capabilities in the national security market.

Data Tactics has about 200 employees, including 150 data scientists, engineers, architects and developers.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but Data Tactics is expected to generate about $50 million in 2014 revenue.

“Data Tactics adds key capabilities in Big Data analytics to L-3’s portfolio, a very attractive and specialized domain that immediately enhances L-3’s existing National Security Solutions business and supports its growth as a solutions integrator for the national security and international markets,” said L-3 chairman and CEO Michael Strianese in a statement.

The acquisition also fits with L-3’s strategy to find adjacent markets for its intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance business, he said.

Data Tactics was founded in 2005 to focus on data analytics, cloud computing, ultra large-scale data management, cybersecurity, software development and integration capabilities.

The company also brings proprietary solutions, including a big data engine platform, a high-speed analytics and cloud computing platform. Data Tactics also is a prime contractor on several security programs.

The investment bank Houlihan Lokey served as an advisor to Data Tactics.