The acquisition of Aerojet will continue L3Harris expansion in the defence and space sectors following the 2019 merger of L3 Technologies and Harris Corp.
L3Harris Technologies has acquired Aerojet Rocketdyne for $58 per share, in an all-cash transaction valued at $4.7bn, inclusive of net debt.
This marks L3Harris second acquisition announcement of 2022, demonstrating its continued focus on delivering critical capabilities to warfighters while strengthening the nations defence industrial base through increased competition.
Commenting on the agreement, Christopher E. Kubasik, L3Harris CEO and Chair, said: “Weve heard the DoD leadership loud and clear: they want high-quality, innovative and cost-effective solutions to meet both current and emerging threats, and theyre relying upon strong, competitive industrial base to deliver those solutions. With this acquisition, we will use the combined talents of more than 50,000 employees to drive continuous process improvement, enhance business operations and elevate the performance of this crucial national asset.”
The acquisition will ensure the defence industrial base and our customers will have a strengthened merchant supplier to effectively address both current and emerging threats and promote scientific discovery and innovation through targeted investment in advanced missile technologies, hypersonics and more.
Eileen P. Drake, CEO and President of Aerojet Rocketdyne, added: “This agreement will accelerate innovation for national security propulsion solutions while providing a premium cash value for our shareholders and tremendous benefits for our employees, customers, partners and the communities in which we operate. Joining L3Harris is a testament to the world-class organisation and team weve built and represents a natural next phase of our evolution. As part of L3Harris, we will bring our advanced technologies together with their substantial expertise and resources to accelerate our shared purpose: enabling the defence of our nation and space exploration. This is an exciting new chapter for Aerojet Rocketdyne and our over 5,200 dedicated team members, providing them with additional opportunities, and we look forward to working closely with L3Harris to complete this transaction.”
Aerojet Rocketdyne currently generates approximately $2.3bn in annual revenue. The companys employees operate primarily out of advanced manufacturing facilities in Canoga Park, California; Camden, Arkansas; West Palm Beach and Orlando, Florida; Huntsville, Alabama; Orange, Virginia; Redmond, Washington; Stennis Space Center, Mississippi; Jonesborough, Tennessee; and Carlstadt, New Jersey.
The cash acquisition will be funded with existing cash and the issuance of new debt. The deal is expected to close in 2023, subject to required regulatory approvals and clearances and other customary closing conditions.
