By Calvin Biesecker

Rockwell Collins [COL] yesterday said it plans to acquire DataPath, Inc., a provider of satellite communications (SATCOM) network solutions to military and commercial customers, in a deal valued at $130 million.

The purchase price includes a $20 million cash payment and the assumption of $110 million in DataPath debt and existing obligations. The deal, which is expected to close in about 45 days subject to regulatory and other approvals, is expected to be neutral to Rockwell Collins’ earnings in FY ’09.

Rockwell Collins’ makes fixed satellite terminals for use with dedicated military satellites. DataPath opens the commercial satellite-based network communications market to Rockwell Collins. The company also provides mobile terminals, a network management, software solution and is a full service integrator for SATCOM solutions, all of which would be new capabilities for Rockwell Collins.

“The acquisition of DataPath will broaden and strengthen our position in networked communications, an area of rapid growth for military customers around the world,” Clay Jones, president and CEO of DataPath, said in a statement.

DataPath has more than 600 employees. The company’s sales figures were not disclosed.