ITT Exelis has signed a definitive agreement to acquire C4i Pty. Ltd. (C4I) based in Melbourne, Australia, from the Longreach Group Ltd. for an enterprise value of approximately USD 16.8 million. Pending Longreach Group shareholder approval, the transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2013 subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals. The acquisition is not material to Exelis 2012 results.

C4i provides advanced communications software that is central to the needs of air traffic management systems and mobile communications solutions for commercial, homeland security and defense systems around the globe. Its Internet Protocol (IP)-based voice control and switching solutions allow for large networks of radio devices to be seamlessly integrated. This technology provides operators with a fully integrated command and control system enabling enhanced safety and efficiency for air traffic control.

“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, president of Exelis Information Systems. "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.”

C4i is based in Melbourne, Australia with locations in Perth, Australia; Reston, VA, USA; and Singapore.