L-3 locks up purchase of Airborne Technologies

L-3 Communications Corp. has acquired Airborne Technologies Inc., which specializes in aeronautical engineering services for unmanned aircraft systems.

Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

ATI’s products are applicable to the intelligence, defense and commercial aerospace communities, according to an L-3 announcement released today.

The acquisition will expand L-3’s ability to serve additional key precision engagement market segments, including precision-guided unmanned systems, the announcement said.

Currently, the company, based in Ashburn, Va., supports several Defense Department programs, including as a prime contractor in the production of an air-launched small expendable unmanned aircraft system (UAS).

This acquisition will enhance L-3’s UAS portfolio and aligns with the company's precision engagement market growth strategy, the statement said.

“ATI will enhance L-3’s overall position as a UAS solutions provider, adding to our portfolio of platforms, components and technologies available for our customers,” said Michael Strianese, L-3 chairman, president and CEO.

ATI is expected to generate approximately $20 million in sales for the 12 months ending Dec. 31, 2010, L-3 said.

L-3 Communications Corp., of New York City, ranks No. 8 on Washington Technology’s 2010 Top 100 list of the largest federal contractors.