Welcome to today's Defense Business Briefing, your weekly roundup of the latest defense industry news.

Harris exploring 'the possible sale of our night-vision business'

Harris said today that as part of the regulatory process involved in finalizing its planned merger with L3 Technologies, it's "moving proactively" to consider the potential sale of its night-vision business.

Shea: Peraton focusing investments in offensive cyber, AI, machine learning, space arena

Peraton is focusing on areas of work "that are strategically important to us," including space command and control, offensive cyber, artificial intelligence and machine learning, the company's chief executive told Inside Defense.

Applied Insight seeks integrated approach

As the new chief executive of Applied Insight, contracting industry veteran John Hynes will be tasked with integrating the company while also seeking additional acquisitions.

Enlightenment Capital invests in System High

Enlightenment Capital said it has invested in System High, which will serve as the investment firm's newest platform.

Textron reports reduced sales at Textron Systems, Bell

Textron said sales in its most recent quarter dropped in both its Textron Systems and Bell Helicopter units.

UTC CEO: Separation slated for mid-2020

United Technologies' planned split into three companies is likely to take about 18 months, the company's chief executive said.

Jenner & Block hires GAO senior bid protest hearing officer

Law firm Jenner & Block said it has named Noah Bleicher a special counsel in its government contracts practice.

Clark joins Covington & Burling

Law firm Covington & Burling said it has hired Samantha Clark in its public policy, Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States and government contracts practices.

Hynes tapped to lead Applied Insight

Applied Insight said it has named John Hynes, the former CEO of TASC and chief operating officer of Engility, to serve as chief executive.

Network Designs names new CEO

Network Designs announced that retired Army Col. Anthony Zeruto is its new president and CEO.

The week ahead

President Trump and Congress have agreed to re-open closed government agencies until Feb. 15. Meanwhile, senior Pentagon officials are scheduled to speak around the Washington area this week and a host of defense companies will have earnings calls.

Shanahan gives USD R&E initial authority over new SDA, orders plan by March 1

The Pentagon plans to establish a new Space Development Agency under the authority of Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering Michael Griffin by the end of March, according to a new memo from acting Defense Secretary Pat Shanahan.