Datron Systems Intends to Acquire Escondido Receiver-Transmitter Firm

Datron Systems, a Simi Valley-based manufacturer of radar and satellite tracking equipment, has signed a letter of intent to acquire Trans World Communications, an Escondido maker of long-range, high-frequency receivers and transmitters. Terms of the cash and stock deal were not disclosed.

Datron said it will operate Trans World as a wholly owned subsidiary. Datron, with sales of $18 million for its fiscal year ended March 30, employs 145. Trans World has annual sales of about $4 million and employs 100.

No changes are expected in employment levels, according to Thomas V. Baker, chief financial adviser of Datron.

Both companies are primarily military contractors. Datron’s tracking equipment is used by the U.S. government, whereas most of Trans World’s clients are foreign governments, including Venezuela, Nigeria and Indonesia.