June 14 (Reuters) - French aerospace engine maker Safran SA (SAF.PA) is nearing an approximately $1.8 billion deal to acquire a Raytheon Technologies Corp (RTX.N) unit that makes flight controls for aircraft, helicopters and missiles, according to a person familiar with the matter.
Safran may reach a deal to acquire Raytheon's actuation business that makes flight controls as early as this week, the source said, asking not to be identified because the matter is confidential.
Spokespeople for Safran and Raytheon did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Safran said on June 5 it was participating in a "competitive process" for Raytheon's flight controls business, without commenting on the chances of an agreement or the terms of a deal.
The Raytheon business will strengthen Safran's ties with Airbus SE (AIR.PA), since it sells into many of its commercial aircraft and has some operations in France.
Persons:
Safran, Parker, Spokespeople, Olivier Andries, Rockwell Collins, Greg Hayes, David Carnevali, Louise Heavens
Organizations:
Safran SA, Raytheon Technologies Corp, Raytheon, United Technologies, Moog Inc, Eaton Corp, Woodward Inc, Hannifin, Bloomberg News, Safran's, French, Zodiac Aerospace, Airbus, U.S ., Rockwell, Collins Aerospace, Thomson
Locations:
France, New York