BAE Systems to Acquire Fairchild Imaging

BAE Systems announced today that it will acquire electronics and aviation systems company Fairchild Imaging for $86 million.

BAE already owns 8.7 percent of the shares of the Milpitas, Calif.-based company. The 150 Fairchild employees will be integrated into BAE’s Electronic Solutions division.

Linda Hudson, president and CEO of BAE Systems, said the acquisition will help BAE in its growth strategy plans.

“The addition of Fairchild Imaging’s advanced electronic imagery technology will support enhanced night vision capability for both airborne and land forces applications,” she said. “It also progresses BAE Systems’ focus on providing our customers with higher-quality image solutions with lower size, weight, and power characteristics, helping soldiers to complete their missions more safely and effectively.”

According to the press release, the deal is expected to close in the first half of 2011.