General Dynamics forms C4 Systems unit

General Dynamics Corp. has created a C4 Systems business unit by combining two units that provide command and control systems, officials of the Falls Church, Va., company said Nov. 14.

Merging General Dynamics' Decision Systems and C4 Systems units created the new business unit.

"Combining these two units will make us a stronger competitor in the marketplace and will enable us to serve our customers more effectively," said Gerard DeMuro, executive vice president of the General Dynamics Information Systems and Technology group.

The new C4 Systems unit has approximately 6,500 employees, and performs systems integration work in five key areas: tactical networks, information assurance, command and control, space products and systems and military radios.

Mark Fried, 57, will lead the new business unit as its president, company officials announced. Fried reports to DeMuro.

Fried had been president of General Dynamics Decision Systems, based in Scottsdale, Ariz., since the company acquired that unit from Motorola Corp. in September 2001.

DeMuro had been president of General Dynamics C4 Systems, based in Taunton, Mass., until he was appointed to his current position in October.

DeMuro said Fried understands the group's products and its customers, and has the experience to meld the Decision Systems and C4 Systems units into one organization.

General Dynamics employs about 66,900 people worldwide and anticipates 2003 revenue of $16.1 billion, according to company figures. The company was ranked No. 7 on Washington Technology's Top 100 list.