Raytheon buys cyber security firm Blackbird Technologies

Raytheon has purchased privately held Virginia-based cyber security firm Blackbird Technologies as part of a $420m deal, which would enable broadening its surveillance and cyber security services to clients.

In addition to making Raytheon as one of the top industry partners to Special Operations Command (SOCOM), the latest acquisition would also allow improving offerings in persistent surveillance, secure tactical communications and cyber security in intelligence and special operations markets.

Raytheon Intelligence Information and Services president Lynn Dugle said: "Blackbird Technologies is a strong fit for Raytheon and enhances the growth prospects of our business and the capabilities we can offer our customers.

"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."

Upon completion of the transaction, Blackbird will become part of Raytheon’s Intelligence, Information and Services (IIS) unit.

With customers in the IC, Special Operations Command (SOCOM) and the intelligence organizations supporting the Department of Defense, Blackbird Technologies expands Raytheon’s special operations capabilities in tactical intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, secure tactical communications and cybersecurity across a broad spectrum of globally dispersed platforms and communications networks.

With its customer list spanning from IC, Special Operations Command (SOCOM) and the intelligence organisations in support of the Department of Defense (DoD), Blackbird Technologies will further expand Raytheon’s special operations capabilities across a broad range of globally spread platforms and communications networks.

Blackbird Technologies CEO Peggy Styer said: "Raytheon is driven by innovation and a relentless focus on customer success.

"Raytheon’s extraordinary technical depth and our combined capabilities in cyber security, persistent surveillance, and secure tactical communications will allow us to deliver the next generation of end-to-end solutions to our customers in the IC and special operations markets."