Leidos acquires L3Harris’ airport security business in $1bn deal

Leidos has completed the purchase of the L3Harris Technologies’ Security Detection and Automation businesses in a cash deal valued at $1bn.

This February, L3Harris agreed to sell its airport security and automation business to Leidos.

The businesses offer airport and critical infrastructure screening products, automated tray return systems and other industrial automation products.

The Security & Detection Systems and MacDonald Humfrey Automation businesses are said to have annual revenues of around $500m.

The businesses will run with the Leidos Civil Group, which is spearheaded by Civil Group president Jim Moos.

Along with the existing cargo and baggage screening product lines of Leidos, the company has over 24,000 systems installed in 120 countries.

Leidos chairman and CEO Roger Krone said: “In line with our mission of making the world safer, healthier and more efficient, this security detection and automation acquisition furthers our important work in the secure movement of people and commerce globally.

“We are excited to support critical infrastructure wherever it is needed, and to help transform the global security marketplace.”

Moos said: “This deal expands our scope and scale in securing ports and borders, enhancing passenger movement in airports of the future, and fortifying infrastructure for national security and public venues.

“We are pleased to welcome more than 1,200 L3Harris employees around the world to the Leidos team, who share our deep commitment of providing our customers with a fully-integrated security technology ecosystem.”

The acquisition will expand Leidos’ product portfolio, increase international presence and help it develop new solutions.

Based in Virginia, the US, Leidos serves the defence, intelligence, homeland security, civil, and health markets.