SPX snaps up UK-based datalink and RF countermeasures specialist
Claw directional inhibitor for C-UAS operations. (Photo: Enterprise Control Systems)
Hardware and software integration between both companies could optimise SIGINT to deliver a clearer battlefield picture and facilitate threat interdiction.
US firm SPX on 3 August announced that it has completed the acquisition of UK company Enterprise Control Systems (ECS).
The value of the transaction was not disclosed. It follows announcements in recent days of two other bids by US firms for defence and security UK businesses — Cobham for Ultra and Parker-Hannifin for Meggitt.
ECS designs and manufactures tactical datalinks and RF countermeasures, including C-UAS and counter-IED RF jammers. It will operate alongside SPX subsidiary TCI.
SPX president and CEO Gene Lowe said: ‘We see significant opportunities to grow our presence in COMINT, and complementary technologies and solutions worldwide.’
Hardware and software integration between both companies could optimise SIGINT to deliver a clearer battlefield picture and facilitate threat interdiction.
For example, ECS and TCI technologies could be blended in a C-UAS solution pairing the latter’s Blackbird detection and location system with the former’s Claw jammer.
Colin Bullock, founder of ECS, said: ‘Combining ECS’s expertise in RF countermeasures and encrypted data links systems with SPX’s strengths in RF detection and location systems, as well as its global infrastructure and resources, is a great opportunity to further advance product development.’
More from Defence Notes
-
![HAL is major beneficiary of latest Indian procurement approvals]()
HAL is major beneficiary of latest Indian procurement approvals
India has approved millions of dollars in new military purchases, most of which will go to public sector companies.
-
![Why cybersecurity must be a priority for Latin American militaries]()
Why cybersecurity must be a priority for Latin American militaries
The main obstacles to overcoming risks in the region are a lack of a strong cybersecurity culture and inadequate funds to invest in this domain given a widespread Chinese presence in the region.
-
![MBDA navigates supply chain pressures amidst increased demand for armaments]()
MBDA navigates supply chain pressures amidst increased demand for armaments
MBDA is adapting to supply chain pressures as the Russian invasion of Ukraine leads to increased demand for armaments.
-
![Why UK defence still faces an uncertain future and difficult decisions]()
Why UK defence still faces an uncertain future and difficult decisions
Despite the additional funding promised this week, the UK armed forces still look set to face cutbacks, and maintaining international commitments to AUKUS and GCAP may limit the options for other programmes.
-
![What's the deal with defence procurement? (podcast)]()
What's the deal with defence procurement? (podcast)
This week on the Shephard Defence Podcast, senior naval reporter Harry Lye and military training & simulation reporter Norbert Neumann chat with Professor John Louth.
