A marine equipment company has been bought by an international rival for an undisclosed sum.

Ocean Signal, based in Margate, has been acquired by ACR Electronics, a safety and survival technology firm, which is part of global tech business Drew Marine.

The combined companies will aim to create the next generation of survival products for the marine, land, military and aviation markets.

Founded in 2008, Ocean Signal is primarily a research and development business supplying marine communication and safety equipment.

It will continue to operate from its Thanet base, with its managing director Alan Wrigley continuing in the role.

Mr Wrigley said: “This is an exciting time for Ocean Signal and ACR.

“This combination will allow Ocean Signal to expand its capabilities and together we will redefine safety and survival technology in order to save more lives around the world – which is the objective we are all working towards.”

ACR Electronics president Gerry Angeli said: “Ocean Signal has pioneered a number of innovations in marine safety.

“Their ability to create a strong brand in a short period of time is a testament to their product design, quality and understanding of the market.

“Like ACR, Ocean Signal is known for reliable products that perform in the worst conditions the first time, every time and we are excited to add them to our team.”