Segment Information (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Revenue recognition
Sales	$ 313,371	$ 316,766
Operating income (loss)	18,242	27,754
Depreciation and amortization	4,718	5,832
Transportation Systems
Revenue recognition
Sales	118,600	125,800
Operating income (loss)	13,200	17,900
Depreciation and amortization	500	900
Mission Support Services
Revenue recognition
Sales	113,400	107,500
Operating income (loss)	4,200	4,500
Depreciation and amortization	3,100	3,500
Defense Systems
Revenue recognition
Sales	81,200	83,300
Operating income (loss)	1,200	6,000
Depreciation and amortization	800	1,200
Other
Revenue recognition
Sales	200	200
Unallocated corporate expenses and other
Revenue recognition
Operating income (loss)	(400)	(600)
Depreciation and amortization	$ 300	$ 200