FILE PHOTO - Michael Strianese speaks during the 2010 Reuters Aerospace and Defense Summit in Washington September 9, 2010. REUTERS/Hyungwon Kang

(Reuters) - Aerospace communication systems provider L3 Technologies Inc LLL.N said on Wednesday that Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Michael Strianese would retire and Christopher Kubasik, who is currently the chief operating officer (COO), would succeed him.

Kubasik has held several senior level roles, most notably as the COO of Lockheed Martin Corp LMT.N prior to L3.

Strianese’s retirement is effective Dec. 31, but he will remain as chairman of the board, the company added.

Strianese, who played a key role in the company’s formation, has been at the helm since 2006 and has worked for the company 20 years.