ITT Exelis to Acquire C4i from the Longreach Group

Global aerospace, defense and information solutions company, ITT (News - Alert) Exelis, recently initiated the acquisition of C4i Pty. Limited from the Longreach Group Limited for the sum of $16.8 million. This acquisition will augment ITT Exelis' communications software and mobile communications solutions, while expanding its reach in the Asia Pacific region.

C4i's communications software is used in air traffic management systems, while its mobile communications solutions are used in commercial, homeland security and defense systems around the world. The company is based in Australia, but also has operations in the United States and Singapore.

The most valuable asset that the turnkey systems supplier brings to ITT Exelis it is Internet protocol-based voice control and switching solutions which allow for large networks of radio devices to be integrated. This technology provides network operators with a fully integrated command and control system, enabling "enhanced safety and efficiency for air traffic control," said ITT Exelis.

“C4i’s interoperable communications solutions and engineering talent will complement Exelis’ strong and successful record of integrating, deploying and operating large scale communications networks for our air traffic management, commercial and defense customers," said Michael R. Wilson, Exelis Information Systems president, in a statement. "This acquisition expands our portfolio of critical infrastructure solutions, builds on our presence in Australia, and brings us closer to our customers and markets of interest.”

In other recent communications news, BSNL (News - Alert), working in partnership with SIS Infosystems, began the "second telecom revolution" in India with a function led by Sam Pitroda, adviser to the Prime Minister of India on public information infrastructure and innovation. Put simply, this revolution consists of making the move from public call offices (PCOs) to video call offices (VCOs).

According to Pitroda, "millions of immigrants" will benefit from the switch to VCO, especially considering the charges for this service are anticipated to be relatively cheap — costing around three Rupees per forty five seconds.

"No other government in the world has done this," said Pitroda. "The Government has earmarked Rs 1,000 crore for public information systems as an investment in the future,” he said. “I can imagine the kids carrying Aakash tablets to their schools, rather than heavy bags, five years down the line. I am astounded to see my 18-month-old granddaughter talk to me via video.”