In a move that further solidifies the obvious plan on the side of big contractors to expand their cybersecurity businesses, Raytheon announced this morning that it will acquire Blackbird Technologies. Privately held Blackbird Technologies provides cybersecurity, surveillance and secure communications to intelligence and special operations units. Raytheon acquired the company for $420 million.
Located in Herndon, Virginia, Blackbird will become part of Raytheon Company’s Intelligence, Information and Services (IIS) business.
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. The transaction will significantly elevate Raytheon’s position as a player in cybersecurity and intelligence.
The company has been focused on expansion of a variety of its business lines, through acquisition as well as new initiatives. In October, Raytheon announced a partnership with the University of Massachusetts Lowell to open a research institute that will focus on electronics and nanotechnology. Raytheon plans to commit $3-5 million to support the research effort.
Cybersecurity has become a key focus area for both the public and private sectors. As CivSource previously reported, DHS recently announced a multi-million dollar research and development grant program. Several federal directives are also guiding the ramp up on the government side. Within the private sector, financial firms have announced more targeted efforts in recent weeks to beef up security.