Raytheon Applied Signal Technology Snapshot
Eavesdropping is no accident at Raytheon Applied Signal Technology. The company makes reconnaissance equipment -- including receivers, processors, and software -- used by the US government and its contractors to collect and process electronic communications and other electronic signals. Its products are used to scan and filter cell phone, ship-to-shore, microwave, and military transmissions and evaluate them for relevant information. Others are designed to collect and process radar signals for weapons systems. The company sells mostly to intelligence and military agencies, though it generates some revenue from commercial clients. In 2011 it was acquired by top military contractor Raytheon for $490 million.