L-3 CEO Lanza Dies

Frank Lanza, the L-3 Communications(LLL Quote) chief executive who led the company since its spinoff from Lockheed(LMT Quote) 10 years ago, died suddenly on Tuesday.

According to a company release, the 74-year-old Lanza had been recovering "satisfactorily" from unspecified surgery. "His death was sudden and unexpected," the company said.

After serving as an executive with Loral and Lockheed, Lanza helped mastermind L-3's formation in 1997 and was chief executive of the defense contractor for its entire existence as a separate company. He was also a popular media presence, serving as a frequent business commentator on CNBC, among other outlets. ...