WILMINGTON, MA /BUSINESS WIRE/ -- Textron Systems Corp., a Textron Inc. company, announced that it has acquired Crane Wireless Monitoring Solutions (WMS), a Crane Co. business. WMS is a leading provider of wireless sensor networks for force protection, border and base security applications, servicing the U.S. Military as well as homeland security and commercial customers. Details of the acquisition were not disclosed.

"Since 2000, WMS has developed, tested, and delivered impressive sensors that communicate reliably over self-forming and self-healing radio networks. Their extensive radio communications, wireless systems, and signal processing expertise complement our Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) products, including our Urban and Tactical Unattended Ground Sensors."

Noted for its MicroObserver unattended ground sensor system, VantedgePoint Remote Monitoring System, and its work for the U.S. Army, U.S. Air National Guard, U.S. Department of Energy, and other customers, WMS will become part of Textron Defense Systems, an operating unit of Textron Systems. The team, based in Richardson, TX, consists of approximately 25 people, and it will be an operation within Textron Defense Systems' ISR business line.

"Since 2000, WMS has developed, tested, and delivered impressive sensors that communicate reliably over self-forming and self-healing radio networks. Their extensive radio communications, wireless systems, and signal processing expertise complement our ISR products, including our Urban and Tactical Unattended Ground Sensors," stated Mark Catizone, Senior Vice President And General Manager of Textron Defense Systems. "We see a growing market for networked sensors and believe the addition of WMS extends our portfolio of offerings."

About Textron Defense Systems
Textron Defense Systems uses advanced technology and industry expertise to develop and manufacture innovative product solutions, including air- and ground-based smart weapons; directed-energy weapons; ISR systems; and protection systems. Its distinctive solutions for U.S. and allied militaries, aerospace, and homeland security communities provide precision effects and intelligence-gathering capabilities and force protection.

About Textron Systems
Textron Systems Corp. has been providing innovative solutions to the defense, homeland security, and aerospace communities for more than 50 years. Known for its unmanned aircraft systems, advanced marine craft, armored vehicles, intelligent battlefield and surveillance systems, intelligence software solutions, precision smart weapons, piston engines, test and training systems, and total life-cycle sustainment services, Textron Systems includes AAI Corp., Lycoming Engines, Overwatch, Textron Defense Systems, and Textron Marine & Land Systems. Textron Systems Corp. is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Textron Inc.

About Textron Inc.
Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial, and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Co., Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, and Textron Systems.