Blackbird

American defense contractor Raytheon reported today that it is beefing up its cyber capabilities with the acquisition of Blackbird Technologies, a Virginia-based provider of persistent surveillance, secure tactical communications, and cyber security solutions to the Intelligence Community and special operations market. The total cost will be approximately $420 million, Raytheon says.

Blackbird currently supports customers in the Intelligence Community, Special Operations Command and the intelligence organizations supporting the Department of Defense. The company will become part of Raytheon Company’s Intelligence, Information and Services business.

Raytheon says the acquisition will increase its special operations capabilities in tactical intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, secure tactical communications and cyber security while also complementing its existing cybersecurity, sensor, communications and command and control capabilities.

“Blackbird Technologies is a strong fit for Raytheon and enhances the growth prospects of our business and the capabilities we can offer our customers,” Lynn Dugle, President of Raytheon Intelligence, Information and Services, said in a statement. “Blackbird expands Raytheon’s already-established footprint in the Intelligence Community market while helping to grow our cyber operations and special missions support to the Department of Defense. The combination will bring even more talent, innovation and experience to our customers.”

[ image courtesy of Blackbird Technologies ]