By Calvin Biesecker

Bolstering its capabilities in cybersecurity, Boeing [BA] yesterday said it has agreed to acquire Narus, a small California-based firm specializing in network traffic intelligence.

Terms of the deal, which is expected to close in the third quarter, were not disclosed. Boeing is planning a media call today to further discuss the acquisition.

“This acquisition is another step forward in our strategy to develop integrated solutions for better network visibility, threat detection, and cybersecurity,” Roger Krone, president of Boeing Network & Space Systems, said in a statement. Once the acquisition is completed, Narus will operate as a subsidiary within Network & Space Systems, which is a business within Boeing’s Defense, Space & Security division.

Narus, which has 150 employees, provides real-time network traffic and analytics software to protect against cyber attacks aimed at large Internet Protocol networks. The two companies have previously partnered.

Boeing said that Narus’ technology will be used to support the cyber activities within Network & Space Systems and will be applied to its smart grid energy work, the secure networking of its ground, air and space products, and the defense of its network.

The acquisition follows the announcement last week by Boeing to acquire the defense electronics firm Argon ST [STST] to boost its capabilities in the C4ISR and cyber areas (Defense Daily, July 1).