SAM Electronics of Hamburg, a subsidiary of L-3 Communications, New York, has acquired APSS S.r.l. of Italy, a leading supplier of automation equipment and control assemblies to the domestic marine market. Based in Diano d’Alba, APSS is an acknowledged specialist integrator of automation systems and manufacturer of control components. Customers include high-end Italian shipyards building cruiseliners, ferries and chemical carriers. Acquisition of the Italian company enhances the broad international presence of SAM Electronics and its Danish subsidiary, Lyngsø Marine. Additionally, together with its strategic partner, L-3 Valmarine of Norway, APSS provides further opportunities for accelerated growth within the automation sector of the marine industry.