Litton to Buy Navigation Systems Unit From Hughes

Litton Industries Inc., a Woodland Hills-based defense concern, has agreed to purchase a navigation systems business from Hughes Electronics.

The navigation unit is part of Hughes’ Delco Systems Operations and has plants in Goleta, Calif., and Milwaukee. The company manufactures and maintains aircraft navigation systems for the U.S. Air Force as well as other commercial and military customers worldwide. It has estimated annual sales of more than $70 million.

The transaction price was not released.

Litton has been a major player in the aviation navigation business for military and commercial customers, and the Hughes pact would add to its existing business, the company said. The purchase is part of Litton’s strategic plan to grow by acquiring businesses that fit with its defense and commercial programs. In the past year, Litton has acquired businesses with about $280 million in revenue.