Tag Archives: Aerospace

Sierra Space Secures Record $1.4 Billion Series A Growth Investment and Achieves $4.5 Billion Valuation

General Atlantic

Investment led by General Atlantic, Coatue and Moore Strategic Ventures, with participation from funds and accounts managed by BlackRock Private Equity Partners and AE Industrial Partners

• Sierra Space secures $1.4 billion Series A capital raise; represents largest aerospace and defense capital raise globally in 2021, second-largest private capital raise globally in the aerospace and defense sector ever
• Growth capital accelerates the realization of Sierra Space’s vision of enabling humanity to build civilizations in space, while enhancing life on Earth
• Sierra Space is building the first commercial business platform in space; investment accelerates development of the company’s revolutionary Dream Chaser Spaceplane and expandable LIFE Commercial Space Station
• Dream Chaser Spaceplane, a family of vehicles for cargo, crew and national security applications, is in advanced stage of development and production and is under a multi-billion-dollar contract with NASA to perform cargo resupply missions to the International Space Station starting late next year
• Sierra Space is uniquely positioned to drive and capitalize on rapidly expanding low Earth orbit (LEO) economy via its differentiated and technologically advanced products

November 19, 2021

Sierra Space, a leading commercial space company with 1,100 employees, more than 500 missions and over 30 years of space flight heritage, announced today a $1.4 billion Series A investment of primary capital, the first capital raise for the company and the second-largest private capital raise globally in the aerospace and defense sector ever.

Sierra Space aims to build the future of space transportation, commercial space destinations and infrastructure, and enabling technologies that will help to build a vibrant, growing commercial space economy. As the LEO economy reaches a critical inflection point – driven by the convergence of the increasing commercialization of space, renewed public interest and defense considerations – Sierra Space is developing foundational infrastructure to support this growing ecosystem. By opening up affordable access to space, Sierra Space hopes to enable existing businesses, entrepreneurs, researchers and governments to create exciting breakthroughs that can empower humanity to begin new civilizations in space and benefit life on Earth.

The round is led by General Atlantic, Coatue and Moore Strategic Ventures, with participation from funds and accounts managed by BlackRock Private Equity Partners, AE Industrial Partners, and various strategic family offices. The funding will accelerate the development of the company’s revolutionary Dream Chaser® Spaceplane, the world’s only orbital commercial spaceplane. Dream Chaser is designed to be a reusable orbital spaceplane, uniquely capable of a smooth 1.5 low-g re-entry and able to land on commercial runways virtually anywhere on Earth.

Dream Chaser is in advanced-stage development under a multi-billion-dollar NASA contract to perform cargo resupply missions to the International Space Station. Dream Chaser has three variants leveraging flexible design and performance versatility to address cargo, crewed or national security space requirements across domestic and international commercial, civil government and defense customer segments.

This investment will also support the development of the company’s Large Integrated Flexible Environment (LIFE™) Habitat, a modular, three-story commercial habitation, business and science platform. Dream Chaser and LIFE Habitat are critical components for Orbital Reef, the visionary new commercial space station that Sierra Space is developing in partnership with Blue Origin.

“We are building the next generation of space transportation systems and in-space infrastructures and destinations that will enable humanity to build and sustain thriving civilizations beyond Earth,” stated Tom Vice, CEO of Sierra Space. “Equally as important, Sierra Space is building the next platform for business. Space provides a unique environment that will enable new breakthroughs in critical areas such as pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, fiber optics and energy that will directly enhance our life on Earth.”

Bill Ford, Chairman and CEO of General Atlantic, said, “General Atlantic and our fellow co-investors are proud to support Sierra Space in its vision to define the future of the commercial space economy. The company has harnessed advanced technologies and a culture of innovation to develop products that have transformative potential, and that position Sierra Space as an emerging leader in the new space age. We look forward to providing active partnership to Sierra Space and its management team to accelerate its growth and magnify its global impact.”

Fatih Ozmen, Chairman of the Sierra Space Board of Directors and CEO of founding company Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC), commented, “We have worked hard for years to nurture the Sierra Space business from its genesis in 2008 to today, where it has significantly grown to hold a very unique and strategic position in the rapidly expanding commercial space sector. Sierra Space now has the right scale, and with its leading-edge technologies and turnkey capabilities is poised to significantly accelerate growth with this investment. Eren and I are excited to welcome this established and experienced team of investors as our new partners at this inflection point for Sierra Space. Together, we have a game-changing strategy and resources that position the company to lead the new space race and seize the growing market in the new space economy.” Fatih and Eren Ozmen own SNC, the majority owner of Sierra Space, and will both serve on the Sierra Space board.

About Sierra Space

Sierra Space products and programs are working towards a more accessible space economy. The company is rapidly advancing toward the launch of the world’s only winged commercial spaceplane, the Dream Chaser. As the next generation of space transportation, the Dream Chaser will perform cargo supply and return missions for NASA, set to begin in late 2022, delivering up to 12,000 pounds of cargo to the International Space Station (ISS) at a time. The return journey will carry critical data, generated by ISS researcher experiments, enabling earth-bound scientists to benefit from much faster access to these unique results. Dream Chaser is a reusable spaceplane, uniquely capable of a smooth 1.5 low-g re-entry for crew and cargo transportation with the ability to land on existing commercial runways worldwide.

Sierra Space is the developer of the Large Integrated Flexible Environment (LIFETM) Habitat, a modular, three-story commercial habitation and science platform. The unique structure will provide opportunities for multiple businesses including manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and other sectors, to optimize zero gravity benefits. The LIFE habitat will be able to be deployed in low-Earth orbit, on the lunar surface, or lunar orbit, and as a transport vehicle to Mars. Both Dream Chaser and LIFE habitat will launch using conventional rocket propulsion systems.

The Dream Chaser spaceplane and LIFE platform are central components of the joint partnership Orbital Reef commercial space station and mixed-use business park being developed in partnership with Blue Origin.

About General Atlantic

General Atlantic is a leading global growth equity firm with more than four decades of experience providing capital and strategic support for over 445 growth companies throughout its history. Established in 1980 to partner with visionary entrepreneurs and deliver lasting impact, the firm combines a collaborative global approach, sector specific expertise, a long-term investment horizon and a deep understanding of growth drivers to partner with great entrepreneurs and management teams to scale innovative businesses around the world. General Atlantic currently has over $78 billion in assets under management inclusive of all products as of June 30, 2021, and more than 215 investment professionals based in New York, Amsterdam, Beijing, Hong Kong, Jakarta, London, Mexico City, Mumbai, Munich, Palo Alto, São Paulo, Shanghai, Singapore and Stamford. For more information on General Atlantic, please visit the website: www.generalatlantic.com

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Mary Armstrong & Emily Japlon
General Atlantic media@generalatlantic.com

Kimberly Schwandt
Sierra Space 720-407-3223 kimberly.schwandt@sncorp.com

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Sierra Space Secures Record $1.4 Billion Series A Growth Investment and Achieves $4.5 Billion Valuation

General Atlantic

Investment led by General Atlantic, Coatue and Moore Strategic Ventures, with participation from funds and accounts managed by BlackRock Private Equity Partners and AE Industrial Partners

• Sierra Space secures $1.4 billion Series A capital raise; represents largest aerospace and defense capital raise globally in 2021, second-largest private capital raise globally in the aerospace and defense sector ever
• Growth capital accelerates the realization of Sierra Space’s vision of enabling humanity to build civilizations in space, while enhancing life on Earth
• Sierra Space is building the first commercial business platform in space; investment accelerates development of the company’s revolutionary Dream Chaser Spaceplane and expandable LIFE Commercial Space Station
• Dream Chaser Spaceplane, a family of vehicles for cargo, crew and national security applications, is in advanced stage of development and production and is under a multi-billion-dollar contract with NASA to perform cargo resupply missions to the International Space Station starting late next year
• Sierra Space is uniquely positioned to drive and capitalize on rapidly expanding low Earth orbit (LEO) economy via its differentiated and technologically advanced products

November 19, 2021

Sierra Space, a leading commercial space company with 1,100 employees, more than 500 missions and over 30 years of space flight heritage, announced today a $1.4 billion Series A investment of primary capital, the first capital raise for the company and the second-largest private capital raise globally in the aerospace and defense sector ever.

Sierra Space aims to build the future of space transportation, commercial space destinations and infrastructure, and enabling technologies that will help to build a vibrant, growing commercial space economy. As the LEO economy reaches a critical inflection point – driven by the convergence of the increasing commercialization of space, renewed public interest and defense considerations – Sierra Space is developing foundational infrastructure to support this growing ecosystem. By opening up affordable access to space, Sierra Space hopes to enable existing businesses, entrepreneurs, researchers and governments to create exciting breakthroughs that can empower humanity to begin new civilizations in space and benefit life on Earth.

The round is led by General Atlantic, Coatue and Moore Strategic Ventures, with participation from funds and accounts managed by BlackRock Private Equity Partners, AE Industrial Partners, and various strategic family offices. The funding will accelerate the development of the company’s revolutionary Dream Chaser® Spaceplane, the world’s only orbital commercial spaceplane. Dream Chaser is designed to be a reusable orbital spaceplane, uniquely capable of a smooth 1.5 low-g re-entry and able to land on commercial runways virtually anywhere on Earth.

Dream Chaser is in advanced-stage development under a multi-billion-dollar NASA contract to perform cargo resupply missions to the International Space Station. Dream Chaser has three variants leveraging flexible design and performance versatility to address cargo, crewed or national security space requirements across domestic and international commercial, civil government and defense customer segments.

This investment will also support the development of the company’s Large Integrated Flexible Environment (LIFE™) Habitat, a modular, three-story commercial habitation, business and science platform. Dream Chaser and LIFE Habitat are critical components for Orbital Reef, the visionary new commercial space station that Sierra Space is developing in partnership with Blue Origin.

“We are building the next generation of space transportation systems and in-space infrastructures and destinations that will enable humanity to build and sustain thriving civilizations beyond Earth,” stated Tom Vice, CEO of Sierra Space. “Equally as important, Sierra Space is building the next platform for business. Space provides a unique environment that will enable new breakthroughs in critical areas such as pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, fiber optics and energy that will directly enhance our life on Earth.”

Bill Ford, Chairman and CEO of General Atlantic, said, “General Atlantic and our fellow co-investors are proud to support Sierra Space in its vision to define the future of the commercial space economy. The company has harnessed advanced technologies and a culture of innovation to develop products that have transformative potential, and that position Sierra Space as an emerging leader in the new space age. We look forward to providing active partnership to Sierra Space and its management team to accelerate its growth and magnify its global impact.”

Fatih Ozmen, Chairman of the Sierra Space Board of Directors and CEO of founding company Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC), commented, “We have worked hard for years to nurture the Sierra Space business from its genesis in 2008 to today, where it has significantly grown to hold a very unique and strategic position in the rapidly expanding commercial space sector. Sierra Space now has the right scale, and with its leading-edge technologies and turnkey capabilities is poised to significantly accelerate growth with this investment. Eren and I are excited to welcome this established and experienced team of investors as our new partners at this inflection point for Sierra Space. Together, we have a game-changing strategy and resources that position the company to lead the new space race and seize the growing market in the new space economy.” Fatih and Eren Ozmen own SNC, the majority owner of Sierra Space, and will both serve on the Sierra Space board.

About Sierra Space

Sierra Space products and programs are working towards a more accessible space economy. The company is rapidly advancing toward the launch of the world’s only winged commercial spaceplane, the Dream Chaser. As the next generation of space transportation, the Dream Chaser will perform cargo supply and return missions for NASA, set to begin in late 2022, delivering up to 12,000 pounds of cargo to the International Space Station (ISS) at a time. The return journey will carry critical data, generated by ISS researcher experiments, enabling earth-bound scientists to benefit from much faster access to these unique results. Dream Chaser is a reusable spaceplane, uniquely capable of a smooth 1.5 low-g re-entry for crew and cargo transportation with the ability to land on existing commercial runways worldwide.

Sierra Space is the developer of the Large Integrated Flexible Environment (LIFETM) Habitat, a modular, three-story commercial habitation and science platform. The unique structure will provide opportunities for multiple businesses including manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and other sectors, to optimize zero gravity benefits. The LIFE habitat will be able to be deployed in low-Earth orbit, on the lunar surface, or lunar orbit, and as a transport vehicle to Mars. Both Dream Chaser and LIFE habitat will launch using conventional rocket propulsion systems.

The Dream Chaser spaceplane and LIFE platform are central components of the joint partnership Orbital Reef commercial space station and mixed-use business park being developed in partnership with Blue Origin.

About General Atlantic

General Atlantic is a leading global growth equity firm with more than four decades of experience providing capital and strategic support for over 445 growth companies throughout its history. Established in 1980 to partner with visionary entrepreneurs and deliver lasting impact, the firm combines a collaborative global approach, sector specific expertise, a long-term investment horizon and a deep understanding of growth drivers to partner with great entrepreneurs and management teams to scale innovative businesses around the world. General Atlantic currently has over $78 billion in assets under management inclusive of all products as of June 30, 2021, and more than 215 investment professionals based in New York, Amsterdam, Beijing, Hong Kong, Jakarta, London, Mexico City, Mumbai, Munich, Palo Alto, São Paulo, Shanghai, Singapore and Stamford. For more information on General Atlantic, please visit the website: www.generalatlantic.com

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Kimberly Schwandt
Sierra Space 720-407-3223 kimberly.schwandt@sncorp.com

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Sierra Space Secures Record $1.4 Billion Series A Growth Investment and Achieves $4.5 Billion Valuation

Ae Industrial Partners

Sierra Space Secures Record $1.4 Billion Series A Growth Investment and Achieves $4.5 Billion Valuation

Investment led by General Atlantic, Coatue and Moore Strategic Ventures, with participation from funds and accounts managed by BlackRock Private Equity Partners and AE Industrial Partners

  • Sierra Space secures $1.4 billion Series A capital raise; represents largest aerospace and defense capital raise globally in 2021, second-largest private capital raise globally in the aerospace and defense sector ever
  • Growth capital accelerates the realization of Sierra Space’s vision of enabling humanity to build civilizations in space, while enhancing life on Earth
  • Sierra Space is building the first commercial business platform in space; investment accelerates development of the company’s revolutionary Dream Chaser® Spaceplane and expandable LIFE Commercial Space Station
  • Dream Chaser Spaceplane, a family of vehicles for cargo, crew and national security applications, is in advanced stage of development and production and is under a multibillion-dollar contract with NASA to perform cargo resupply missions to the International Space Station starting late next year
  • Sierra Space is uniquely positioned to drive and capitalize on rapidly expanding low-Earth orbit (LEO) economy via its differentiated and technologically advanced products

November 19, 2021– LOUISVILLE, Colo.— Sierra Space, a leading commercial space company with 1,100 employees, more than 500 missions and over 30 years of space flight heritage, announced today a $1.4 billion Series A investment of primary capital, the first capital raise for the company and the second-largest private capital raise globally in the aerospace and defense sector ever.

Sierra Space aims to build the future of space transportation, commercial space destinations and infrastructure, and enabling technologies that will help to build a vibrant, growing commercial space economy. As the LEO economy reaches a critical inflection point – driven by the convergence of the increasing commercialization of space, renewed public interest and defense considerations – Sierra Space is developing foundational infrastructure to support this growing ecosystem. By opening up affordable access to space, Sierra Space hopes to enable existing businesses, entrepreneurs, researchers and governments to create exciting breakthroughs that can empower humanity to begin new civilizations in space and benefit life on Earth.

Dream Chaser is in advanced-stage development under a multibillion-dollar NASA contract to perform cargo resupply missions to the International Space Station. Dream Chaser has three variants leveraging flexible design and performance versatility to address cargo, crewed or national security space requirements across domestic and international commercial, civil government and defense customer segments.

This investment will also support the development of the company’s Large Integrated Flexible Environment (LIFE™) Habitat, a modular, three-story commercial habitation, business and science platform. Dream Chaser and LIFE Habitat are critical components for Orbital Reef, the visionary new commercial space station that Sierra Space is developing in partnership with Blue Origin.

“We are building the next generation of space transportation systems and in-space infrastructures and destinations that will enable humanity to build and sustain thriving civilizations beyond Earth,” stated Tom Vice, CEO of Sierra Space. “Equally as important, Sierra Space is building the next platform for business. Space provides a unique environment that will enable new breakthroughs in critical areas such as pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, fiber optics and energy that will directly enhance our life on Earth.”

Bill Ford, Chairman and CEO of General Atlantic, said, “General Atlantic and our fellow co-investors are proud to support Sierra Space in its vision to define the future of the commercial space economy. The company has harnessed advanced technologies and a culture of innovation to develop products that have transformative potential, and that position Sierra Space as an emerging leader in the new space age. We look forward to providing active partnership to Sierra Space and its management team to accelerate its growth and magnify its global impact.”

Fatih Ozmen, Chairman of the Sierra Space Board of Directors and CEO of founding company Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC), commented, “We have worked hard for years to nurture the Sierra Space business from its genesis in 2008 to today, where it has significantly grown to hold a very unique and strategic position in the rapidly expanding commercial space sector. Sierra Space now has the right scale, and with its leading-edge technologies and turnkey capabilities is poised to significantly accelerate growth with this investment. Eren and I are excited to welcome this established and experienced team of investors as our new partners at this inflection point for Sierra Space. Together, we have a game-changing strategy and resources that position the company to lead the new space race and seize the growing market in the new space economy.” Fatih and Eren Ozmen own SNC, the majority owner of Sierra Space, and will both serve on the Sierra Space board.

About Sierra Space

Sierra Space products and programs are working towards a more accessible space economy. The company is rapidly advancing toward the launch of the world’s only winged commercial spaceplane, the Dream Chaser. As the next generation of space transportation, the Dream Chaser will perform cargo supply and return missions for NASA, set to begin in late 2022, delivering up to 12,000 pounds of cargo to the International Space Station (ISS) at a time. The return journey will carry critical data, generated by ISS researcher experiments, enabling earth-bound scientists to benefit from much faster access to these unique results. Dream Chaser is a reusable spaceplane, uniquely capable of a smooth 1.5 low-g re-entry for crew and cargo transportation with the ability to land on existing commercial runways worldwide.

Sierra Space is the developer of the Large Integrated Flexible Environment (LIFETM) Habitat, a modular, three-story commercial habitation and science platform. The unique structure will provide opportunities for multiple businesses including manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and other sectors, to optimize zero gravity benefits. The LIFE Habitat will be able to be deployed in low-Earth orbit, on the lunar surface, or lunar orbit, and as a transport vehicle to Mars. Both Dream Chaser and LIFE Habitat will launch using conventional rocket propulsion systems.

The Dream Chaser Spaceplane and LIFE platform are central components of the joint partnership Orbital Reef commercial space station and mixed-use business park being developed in partnership with Blue Origin.

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Inmarsat shareholder group supports combination with Viasat to create a new global communications innovator

Apax

The shareholder group of Inmarsat (“Inmarsat” or the “Company”) – which comprises Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (“CPP Investments”), Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan Board (“Ontario Teachers’”), Warburg Pincus LLC (“Warburg Pincus”) and funds advised by Apax Partners LLP (“Apax”), (together, the “Consortium”) acting through their jointly-owned entity, Connect BidCo – today welcomes the announcement of a definitive agreement between Viasat, Inc. (NASDAQ: VSAT) (“Viasat”) and the shareholders of Inmarsat to combine and create a leading global communications innovator with enhanced scale and scope to affordably, securely and reliably connect the world.

The proposed combination integrates two businesses headquartered in the United Kingdom (“U.K.”) and United States, respectively, which together generate $4.1 billion in annual revenues[1] and operate a premier fleet of 19 in-orbit satellites with 10 more spacecraft under construction for planned launch in the next three years. It brings together two organisations with highly complementary technology assets, resources, capabilities and service portfolios.

Together, Viasat and Inmarsat are positioned to deliver an improved communication offering to customers globally. The combined business will have the resources to accelerate innovation, delivering enhanced quality of service (speed, bandwidth, flexibility, reliability, low latency, coverage, security), product choice, and greater value to existing and new customers. Together, Viasat and Inmarsat will enable the availability of advanced new services in mobile and fixed segments, driving greater customer choice in broadband communications and narrowband services (including Internet of Things or “IoT”).

The Consortium has accepted Viasat’s offer for the entire ordinary share capital of Inmarsat and will retain a significant minority stake in the combined company. Under the terms of the agreement, Inmarsat shareholders will receive $4.0 billion composed of $850 million in cash, subject to adjustments, and approximately 46.36 million newly issued Viasat shares, which represent a 37.5% ownership on a fully diluted basis, valued at $3.1 billion, based on the closing price of $67.00 per Viasat share on November 5, 2021.

The Consortium expects the combined company to build on the strategic and operational progress achieved at Inmarsat to date, and by remaining significant minority shareholders, it is backing a transaction which presents strong industrial logic. Under the Consortium’s ownership, Inmarsat has invested to enhance its go-to-market, product and network capabilities, including the recent launch of GX-5 and the upcoming launches of the I-6 satellites serving the Company’s L-band business for the next 15 years.

Inmarsat has an exceptional presence in the growing global mobility segment and is at the forefront of network design, including its recently announced multi-dimensional mesh network. The Company is preparing to expand its global network later this year with its most powerful and advanced commercial communications satellite ever.

Viasat plans to build on Inmarsat’s presence in the U.K. and is committed to preserving and growing the investment of the combined company in U.K. space communications, as well as supporting the recently published National Space Strategy. The combined company will cooperatively engage with the U.K. government with a view to operating in the U.K. consistent with the commitments previously made by Inmarsat/Connect BidCo and expects continued constructive engagement across the U.K.’s thriving innovation ecosystem. It further intends to work closely with the U.K. government to bring additional space capabilities and other advanced technologies to the country as well as long-term, highly skilled engineering and related jobs for U.K.-based employees. Viasat plans to preserve and grow Inmarsat’s London headquarters, as well as its footprint in Australia and Canada and across Europe, the Middle East and Africa and Asia Pacific.

Rajeev Suri, Chief Executive Officer of Inmarsat, said: “I am pleased our shareholders have supported a combination that enables Inmarsat to join forces with Viasat, a recognized global innovator in space and broadband communications. With our shareholders backing, Inmarsat has successfully returned to strong growth, weathered the pandemic and renewed its technology capabilities. I want to thank our shareholders for enabling Inmarsat to enter this transaction from a position of strength, as well as for their vote of confidence in the combination by becoming equity holders in the combined group.”

The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions including Viasat shareholder approval and regulatory approvals.

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KKR to Acquire Novaria Group from Rosewood Private Investments and Tailwind Advisors

KKR

All Employees to Become Owners in Company

FORT WORTH, Texas–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Nov. 25, 2019–

KKR, a leading global investment firm, today announced it has entered into an agreement to acquire Novaria Group, a leading manufacturer of specialty aerospace hardware, from Rosewood Private Investments and Tailwind Advisors. The transaction, the financial details of which were not disclosed, is being funded through KKR’s Americas XII Fund.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20191125005243/en/

Headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, Novaria Group is a premier independent supplier of complex, highly engineered components and specialty processes for the aerospace and defense industry. Founded in 2011 by CEO Bryan Perkins, Novaria Group aims to improve the aerospace supply chain with an emphasis on better technology, processes and infrastructure. Today, the company serves more than 500 customers.

“Our team has been in search of a differentiated platform in the commercial aerospace sector and are thrilled to have found our partner in Bryan Perkins and his team at Novaria Group,” said Josh Weisenbeck, KKR Member and senior leader on KKR’s Industrials investment team. “We look forward to working together to scale the company and build an aerospace engineered parts supplier that is uniquely focused on excellence in quality and customer service.”

“Since our founding, Novaria Group has always prided itself on being a customer-focused supplier of aerospace parts. Importantly, KKR shares this vision of improving the aerospace supply chain through delivering value to our customers and, through their innovative employee ownership and engagement model, extending the shareholder value we will create through this business strategy to our employees,” said Bryan Perkins, Novaria Group CEO.

Since 2011, KKR’s Industrials team has focused on employee engagement as a key driver in building stronger businesses. The strategy’s cornerstone has been to allow all employees to take part in the benefits of ownership by granting them the opportunity to participate in the equity return alongside KKR. Beyond sharing ownership, KKR also supports employee engagement by investing in training across multiple functional areas and by partnering with the workforce to give back to the community.

“We are extremely excited to support Novaria Group on the next leg of its journey. Similar to what we have done at KKR’s other industrials portfolio companies in the U.S., we plan to implement a broad-based employee ownership and engagement model at Novaria Group to recognize the employees and ultimately position the company to better serve its customers,” said Pete Stavros, KKR Member and Co-Head of Americas Private Equity.

“We’ve enjoyed working with the Novaria management team over the past five years. Since our initial investment in Novaria, we have supported numerous additional acquisitions and substantial organic growth. We are thrilled that Bryan and his team have found a new equity partner to take Novaria to even greater achievement,” said G.T. Barden, Rosewood Private Investments.

This transaction, which is subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions, is expected to close by 1Q 2020. Fully committed financing has been led by lead arrangers KKR Capital Markets and RBC Capital Markets LLC. KKR was advised in the transaction by Kirkland & Ellis LLP, Deloitte and AeroDynamic Advisory. Novaria Group was advised in the transaction by Lazard, Riveron, and Foley & Lardner LLP.

About Novaria Group
Novaria Group is a cohesive family of precision aerospace & defense component companies, a sum made greater by the value of its parts, that consistently delivers optimum performance and sustainable growth. With deep industry knowledge, demonstrated integrity and an abiding regard for human capital, Novaria Group provides its business units unmatched access to unique innovations and best practices. Investing and strategically operating in defined segments of the precision component sector, Novaria Group deploys its significant leadership experience to improve the operational and business capabilities and capital resources of small to mid-market commercial aerospace manufacturing firms. Since our founding in 2011, we have been building a new kind of precision aerospace & defense components supplier, developing robust business processes and long-standing customer relationships, while making organizational and operational improvements designed to sustain and expand our business.

For more information about Novaria Group, please visit www.novariagroup.com.

About KKR
KKR is a leading global investment firm that manages multiple alternative asset classes, including private equity, energy, infrastructure, real estate and credit, with strategic partners that manage hedge funds. KKR aims to generate attractive investment returns for its fund investors by following a patient and disciplined investment approach, employing world-class people, and driving growth and value creation with KKR portfolio companies. KKR invests its own capital alongside the capital it manages for fund investors and provides financing solutions and investment opportunities through its capital markets business. References to KKR’s investments may include the activities of its sponsored funds. For additional information about KKR & Co. Inc. (NYSE: KKR), please visit KKR’s website at www.kkr.com and on Twitter @KKR_Co.

For more information about KKR’s Industrials team and the employee engagement model, please visit the KKR Industrials page on LinkedIn, @KKR_Industrials on Twitter and KKR Industrials on YouTube.

Source: KKR

Novaria Group:
Marissa Kelly
817-381-3813
media@novariagroup.com

KKR:
Kristi Huller or Cara Major
212-750-8300
media@kkr.com

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The Carlyle Group Closes Forgital Acquisition

Carlyle

Milan/Vicenza – Global investment firm The Carlyle Group (NASDAQ: CG) announced that it has completed the acquisition of a 100% controlling stake in Forgital, an Italian based manufacturing company producing large forged and machined components for use in the aerospace and industrial sectors, from members of the founding Spezzapria family and minority shareholder Fondo Italiano d’Investimento, managed by Neuberger Berman.

The purchase agreement, which values Forgital at approximately 1 billion Euros, was first announced on 29th May 2019. Equity for the transaction will come from Carlyle Europe Partners V (CEP V), a European-focused upper-mid market buyout fund and Carlyle Partners VII (CP VII), a US-focused buyout fund.

Established in 1873 with headquarters in Vicenza, Italy, Forgital is a specialist manufacturer of machine-finished forged and laminated rolled rings, made from several different materials, including steel, aluminium, titanium and nickel-based alloys used in several applications across many industries, including aerospace, oil & gas, construction, mining and power generation. Forgital employs over 1,100 people across 9 facilities in Italy, France and United States and through its dedicated global salesforce.

Carlyle will drive the Company’s further international expansion and strengthen its presence in the aerospace sector with Luca Zacchetti, appointed as Group CEO, effective from today. Luca Zacchetti, 58 years old, was CEO at Rhiag Group, the pan-European leader in distribution of aftermarket and spare parts, for over seven years and previously worked for almost five years at AVIO GROUP, a worldwide leader manufacturer of aero-engine components, with the role of Managing Director becoming CEO in 2007. His career includes also positions of Chairman and CEO of Tecnoforge Group and Operating Partner at Alpha Private Equity.

Filippo Penatti, Managing Director, Carlyle Europe Partners advisory team, commented: “We are excited with the appointment of Luca as CEO. We worked well and successfully together in two prior Carlyle investments, including AVIO. His experience in the aerospace industry together with his passion for Forgital’s business will contribute to fueling the Group’s platform development.”

Derek Whang, Principal on Carlyle’s Aerospace, Defense and Government Services team, said: “We look forward to partnering with Luca and all Forgital employees as we embark on this next chapter. The Company has a tremendous heritage and we are committed to upholding Forgital’s exceptional track record and delivering its mission critical parts to all customers.”

Luca Zacchetti, Forgital’s new CEO, added: “I am delighted to join Forgital, a Group with an outstanding reputation for advanced technology, high quality products and world-class customer service. I look forward to contributing to its further international expansion alongside the company’s talented team.”

For more information:

The Carlyle Group:

Barabino & Partners
Marina Riva- Federico Steiner, Tel:+39 02.72.02.35.35
Email: m.riva@barabino.it; f.steiner@barabino.it

Roderick Macmillan
+44  (0)207 894 1630

Email: roderick.macmillan@carlyle.com
About Forgital

Founded in 1873 in Vicenza, Italy by the Spezzapria family, Forgital is the leading European vertically integrated forging company, with 9 facilities in Italy, France and the USA, c. 1,100 employees worldwide and a global network of sales agencies.

Forgital specializes in forging, laminating and machining of rolled rings, with advanced capabilities across a range of materials including: carbon steels, alloy steels, stainless steels, aluminium, nickel, cobalt, copper and titanium alloys.

For more information on Forgital, please visit https://www.forgital.com/

 

About The Carlyle Group

The Carlyle Group (NASDAQ: CG) is a global investment firm with deep industry expertise that deploys private capital across four business segments: Corporate Private Equity, Real Assets, Global Credit and Investment Solutions. With $223 billion of assets under management as of June 30, 2019, Carlyle’s purpose is to invest wisely and create value on behalf of its investors, portfolio companies and the communities in which we live and invest. The Carlyle Group employs more than 1,775 people in 33 offices across six continents.

Web: www.carlyle.com

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Proposed sale of Ontic for $1,365 million to CVC Fund Vll

Transaction unanimously supported by the BBA board as being in the best interests of shareholders

BBA Aviation plc, a market-leading provider of global aviation support and aftermarket services, is pleased to announce that it has entered into an agreement for the sale of Ontic, a leading provider of high-quality, OEM-licensed parts for legacy aerospace platforms, to CVC Fund Vll, for an enterprise value of $1,365 million, subject, inter alia to shareholder approval and regulatory consents.

Transaction highlights

  • Sale of Ontic for an enterprise value of $1,365 million, on a cash-free, debt-free basis
  • Transaction multiple meaningfully above BBA’s trading multiple of 11.4x FY18 underlying EBITDA
  • Transaction unanimously supported by the BBA Board as being in the best interests of shareholders
  • Transaction will enable enhanced focus and investment in the company’s market-leading Signature business, which the board believes to be a significant source of future shareholder value creation
  • Transaction should allow for a capital return to shareholders expected to be between $750 million and $850 million, to help ensure that the net debt of the retained group remains near the lower end of the stated target range of net debt to underlying adjusted EBITDA of 2.5 to 3.0 times at 31 December 2019, on a covenant basis
  • Transaction is conditional upon approval by BBA’s shareholders and various other approvals (including the consent of certain group lenders or replacement of certain financial indebtedness, and consent to the release of applicable security by the group’s pension trustee)
  • Completion is expected in Q4 2019

Mark Johnstone, BBA Aviation CEO, commented: “We are delighted that we have reached an agreement to sell our Ontic business to CVC Fund Vll for $1,365 million, delivering compelling value for BBA shareholders. While maintaining a strong balance sheet, we also expect to return between $750 and $850 million to shareholders and will evaluate how best to structure this return after consultation with our shareholders.

“Ontic was acquired by BBA in February 2006 for $67 million and has grown successfully through the acquisition of licences, organic and inorganic growth, and a disciplined approach to investment. This success has been based on trusted partner relationships with key aviation original equipment manufacturers. It now supports more than 39,000 legacy aircraft, through its portfolio of over 165 licences for more than 7,000 parts and over 1,200 customers worldwide.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our Ontic employees for their contribution to BBA Aviation over the years, and wish them well in the next stage of their journey.

“The Ontic disposal will allow BBA to focus on its core Signature business, the leading global FBO operator and service provider for the B&GA market. BBA shareholders will continue to benefit from Signature’s ability to outperform the B&GA market through the cycle, as well as its ability to take advantage of its significant opportunities for future growth.

“We remain committed to delivering long-term sustainable value from Signature, a strongly free cash generative business, which after funding investment requirements, should underpin both progressive dividends and ongoing returns of capital to shareholders.

“The ERO disposal process is ongoing and we expect to update the market in due course. Disposal proceeds would provide an opportunity to further enhance our proposed return of capital.”

James Mahoney, Senior Managing Director, CVC Capital Partners commented: “Ontic is a growing, highly resilient business and a leading player in what we believe to be a very attractive market. We see multiple opportunities to develop the business further and look forward to working closely with Ontic’s excellent management team to take the company to the next level.”

 

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Winch invests in Spherea

Anderra Partners

SPHEREA continues its growth trajectory with a consortium comprising Andera Partners and Omnes

Paris and Toulouse, 15 May 2019 – A consortium, comprising Andera Partners, via its fund WINCH Capital 4, and Omnes, via its fund Omnes Croissance 4, is taking a majority shareholding in the group SPHEREA, alongside management and its existing financial shareholders (ACE Management via Aerofund III and IRDI-SORIDEC Gestion, via SCR fund IRDI).

Since its exit and its capitalistic independence from the Airbus group, SPHEREA, created in 1965, continues its growth trajectory with the ambition of becoming first European, and then world leader in technological test solutions that enable the availability and security of critical systems for civil or military clients.

SPHEREA offers modular technology solutions for the entire lifecycle of electronic systems. A recognized market integrator, which has developed a wide range of products dedicated to electronic tests, such as the ATEC Series automatic test benches used in maintaining most Airbus and Boeing aircraft, the group relies on the synergy of its professional expertise in the fields of electronics, microwave, optronics, and power electronics. Since its exit in 2014 from the Airbus group, SPHEREA has diversified into energy and rail sectors.

The Group’s development dynamic is supported by an excess of 600 loyal customers worldwide, major players in aerospace and defence (Airbus, Dassault, Honeywell, Lufthansa Technik, DGA, Nahema, Thales, Comac), energy (EDF, Schneider Electric, RTE), or railways (SNCF, Alstom).

SPHEREA generated around €130 million in turnover in 2018, half of which came from exports (50 countries), and employs over 600 staff in France, Germany, the UK., the US and in Asia.

The aim of this deal is to allow SPHEREA to take a new step in its development based in particular on the following strategic areas:

  • Broadening its technological offer: in particular, developing predictive maintenance solutions, anticipating diagnostics, decision support, portable soil testing, on-board maintenance, and simulation;
  • Strengthening its positioning in new markets (energy and rail), drawing on its previous expertise in aeronautics;
  • Accelerating its international development (particularly in Asia and the US) and intensifying its policy of strategic acquisitions in France and Europe.

Christian Dabasse, CEO and Chairman of SPHEREA: “Our raison d’être is to ensure the reliability and security of our customers’ critical systems, we intervene where human life is at stake. Research and innovation are essential axes in a changing world in paradigm shift. Our new financial partners will enable us to expand our offering through increased R&D that responds to these challenges, as well as an ambitious external growth policy, both in France and abroad, on related trades or on new technologies in line with our mission. I especially thank Thierry Letailleur who, in 2014, as CEO of ACE Management and CEO of IRDI, was kind enough to support me in the creation of SPHEREA, and today allows us to enter a new phase of development.”

Antoine Le Bourgeois and Pierre-Yves Poirier, Partners at Andera Partners: “Management convinced us of the solidity of the Group’s historic businesses and the potential for new technological developments in the years to come. In addition, SPHEREA Group is fully committed to the investment strategy of our WINCH Capital 4 fund, which aims to support the change in scale of leading players in their market.”

Stéphane Roussilhe, Partner at Omnes: “We are delighted to support the management team in developing SPHEREA’s core business but also by helping external growth in France and internationally. This investment thesis perfectly reflects the strategy of our Omnes Croissance 4 fund.”

Thierry Letailleur, CEO, and Delphine Dinard, Partner, at ACE Management: “We are delighted to participate in this deal led by Andera and Omnes which allows us to continue supporting the group SPHEREA, which began 5 years ago. We are very proud of the journey made by Christian Dabasse and all his teams. This transaction also illustrates the ability of ACE Management to support strategic industrial companies across all phases of their development, such as the reinvestments recently made within the groups Duqueine, Nexteam, Rafaut and Socomore.”

Marc Bres-Pintat, Investment Director at IRDI-SORIDEC Gestion: “After backing Christian Dabasse and his teams during the successful spin-off from the Airbus group, IRDI-SORIDEC Gestion wanted to join this new capital-intensive operation aimed at providing SPHEREA with the means to pursue its growth strategy.”

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The Carlyle Group to Make Strategic Investment in Aerospace Company NORDAM

Carlyle

Investment will accelerate growth and support strategic plan

New York, NY and Tulsa, OK – Global investment firm The Carlyle Group (NASDAQ: CG) and family-owned aerospace company NORDAM today announced that The Carlyle Group has agreed to make an equity investment in The NORDAM Group, Inc., an aerospace manufacturing and repair company. Carlyle’s equity, along with new debt financing, will fund NORDAM’s exit from Chapter 11, de-lever the business and position the company for continued growth. The Siegfried family will retain its 50-year ownership and oversight of the business, and continue to lead the company forward. Carlyle’s equity will come from Carlyle Strategic Partners IV L.P.

Founded in 1969 by the Siegfried family’s late patriarch, aerospace-industry leader Ray Siegfried II, NORDAM is an aerospace manufacturer and provider of critical maintenance, repair and overhaul services (MRO) to the business, commercial and military aviation end-markets. With highly differentiated composites capabilities, NORDAM is committed to the superior performance and quality of its products as well as its customer-centric approach to MRO services. The company provides services to a global customer base through its nine strategically-located operations and customer support facilities on three continents.

“This is an important milestone for NORDAM as we exit Chapter 11 and embark on our next chapter of growth,” said Meredith Siegfried Madden, Chief Executive Officer of NORDAM. “We are thrilled to partner with Carlyle and look forward to working together to continue providing world-class products and services to our valued customers and enhancing flight safety globally. With Carlyle’s deep industry, operational and financial expertise, we believe we will be well positioned to execute on our strategic plan, expand our business and take advantage of the many growth opportunities that lie ahead.”

Shary Moalemzadeh, Managing Director and Co-Head of Carlyle Strategic Partners, said, “We are excited to partner with NORDAM’s outstanding management team and support the high-quality business they have built over the past 50 years. NORDAM has a stellar reputation for providing industry-leading products and services across global aviation end-markets. With this investment and the support of Carlyle’s global platform, we are confident that the company will have the right capital structure and resources to continue its legacy as a best-in-class aerospace manufacturer and provider of MRO services.”

Evan Middleton, Managing Director of Carlyle Strategic Partners, said, “NORDAM has established itself as a key partner to the U.S. military and business and commercial customers around the world. As a respected, differentiated provider of aerospace products and services, we see significant opportunities for continued growth, both organically and through acquisitions. We look forward to working closely with the NORDAM team to scale the business, expand into new end-markets and further develop the company’s composites capabilities – creating value for all stakeholders.”

The transaction is expected to close early in the first half of 2019, subject to Bankruptcy Court approval and satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including regulatory approval.

* * * * *

About NORDAM

Founded in 1969 on family values with multiple, strategically-located operations and customer support facilities around the world, Tulsa-based NORDAM is a leading independently owned aerospace company. The firm designs, certifies and manufactures integrated propulsion systems, nacelles and thrust reversers for business jets; builds composite aircraft structures, interior shells, custom cabinetry and radomes; and manufactures aircraft transparencies, such as cabin windows, wing-tip lens assemblies and flight deck windows. NORDAM also is a major third-party provider of maintenance, repair and overhaul services to the military, commercial airline and air freight markets. Learn more about NORDAM at NORDAM.com.

About The Carlyle Group

The Carlyle Group (NASDAQ: CG) is a global investment firm with deep industry expertise that deploys private capital across four business segments: Corporate Private Equity, Real Assets, Global Credit and Investment Solutions. With $216 billion of assets under management as of December 31, 2018, Carlyle’s purpose is to invest wisely and create value on behalf of our investors, portfolio companies and the communities in which we live and invest. The Carlyle Group employs more than 1,650 people in 31 offices across six continents.

Web: www.carlyle.com
Videos: www.youtube.com/onecarlyle
Tweets: www.twitter.com/onecarlyle
Podcasts: www.carlyle.com/about-carlyle/market-commentary

Media Contacts

The Carlyle Group:
Devin Broda
Sard Verbinnen & Co.
+1 (212) 687-8080
Carlyle-SVC@sardverb.com

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ARDIAN enters into exclusive negotiations to support REVIMA, a major player in the aerospace MRO sector, in its development alongside Argos Wityu

Ardian

Paris, January, 16, 2019 – Ardian, a world leading private investment house announces that it is in exclusive talks to acquire a majority stake in Revima, a leading MRO (Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul) solutions provider for aircraft equipment, from private equity firm, Argos Wityu. Following the transaction, Olivier Legrand, President of the Group, and Argos Wityu will reinvest alongside Ardian. This transaction is subject to approval from the antitrust authorities as well as the opinion of the works council.

Founded in 1952, Revima is an independent company which has become a leader in the maintenance, repair and overhaul of commercial transport aircraft equipment. The group is well-known for its expertise in the maintenance of auxiliary power units (APU) and landing gears for regional, medium and long-haul aircraft. The company, which has c.750 employees, realized revenues of more than €280 million in 2018, showing double digit growth for several years.

Revima is active in a fast-growing market driven by the continued increase of aircrafts in service worldwide. The group is ideally positioned to continue this development following investment in its French site, the construction of a new industrial site in Thailand which will be operational in 2020, and the pursuit of a bolt-on acquisition strategy. In this regard, Revima is currently in exclusive negotiations for two acquisitions aimed at strengthening its skillsets in repairing engine parts and in the field of advanced predictive maintenance.

Yann Bak, Managing Director at Ardian Buyout, said: “We are very pleased to be associated with the teams at Revima, a fast-growing company positioned in a very promising niche market. We will use our experience and network to expand the group’s international presence and further accelerate its commercial development.”

Olivier Legrand, President and CEO of Revima added: “Our rapid development these last years and the existing and future opportunities for both internal and external growth make us particularly enthusiastic about Revima’s prospects. We are delighted with Ardian’s investment alongside Argos Wityu, as we share common values and entrepreneurial cultures. Our priority is for Revima to become a global player, expanding its skills and know-how into new areas, and be closer to its customers.”

Gilles Mougenot, partner at Argos Wityu concluded: “Revima perfectly illustrates a situation where we helped position the company into new areas of growth. The objective we set ourselves in 2015 was to simplify the shareholder structure while opening it up to employees, help build a supportive management team, and from 2017, invest significantly in the business, notably internationally.”

ABOUT REVIMA

Revima is a leading independent MRO (Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul) solutions provider, specialized in APUs, Engine Parts and Landing Gears, for civil and military aircraft through five dedicated services: Repair & Overhaul, Engine Parts Repair, Material Solutions, Fleet Management and Leasing.
With committed and passionate employees across locations in France, Asia, North America and the Middle East, Revima boasts over 60 years of MRO expertise. Revima supports aircraft operators, lessors, and repair stations worldwide, is an EASA & FAA Part 145 certified organization, and has approvals from numerous agencies.
www.revima-group.com

ABOUT ARDIAN

Ardian is a world-leading private investment house with assets of US$82bn managed or advised in Europe, the Americas and Asia. The company is majority-owned by its employees. It keeps entrepreneurship at its heart and focuses on delivering excellent investment performance to its global investor base.
Through its commitment to shared outcomes for all stakeholders, Ardian’s activities fuel individual, corporate and economic growth around the world.
Holding close its core values of excellence, loyalty and entrepreneurship, Ardian maintains a truly global network, with more than 550 employees working from fifteen offices across Europe (Frankfurt, Jersey, London, Luxembourg, Madrid, Milan, Paris and Zurich), the Americas (New York, San Francisco and Santiago) and Asia (Beijing, Singapore, Tokyo and Seoul). It manages funds on behalf of around 750 clients through five pillars of investment expertise: Fund of Funds, Direct Funds, Infrastructure, Real Estate and Private Debt.
www.ardian.com

ABOUT ARGOS WITYU

Argos Wityu is an independent European private equity group supporting management buyouts of medium sized companies and has offices in Brussels, Frankfurt, Geneva, Luxembourg, Milan and Paris.
Argos Wityu funds take majority stakes between €10m and €100m in companies with revenues from €20m to €600m.
Our investment philosophy aims at creating value through business transformation and growth, instead of financial leverage, and bringing solutions to complex situations: MBI, spin-offs, strategic repositioning, shareholding conflicts… We work in close relationship with management teams, with a strong sense of transparency, trust, entrepreneurship and social responsibility.
Argos Wityu is a member of Invest Europe as well as national associations in France (France Invest), Italy (AIFI), Switzerland (SECA) and BVA (Belgium). Argos Wityu SAS is regulated by the AMF and is AIFMD compliant.
www.argos.wityu.com

LIST OF PARTICIPANTS

Ardian: Yann Bak, Alexandra Goltsova, Benjamin Witcher, Maxime Debost
M&A advisors: Wil Consulting (Jacques Ittah), Alantra (Franck Portais)
Legal and tax advisors: Weil, Gotshal & Manges ((David Aknin, Guillaume Bonnard and Come Wirz (corporate), Edouard de Lamy (fiscal), James Clarke (financing))
Commercial and strategic DD: Archery (Marc Durance, Thibault Espinosa), Oliver Wyman (David Stuart)
Financial DD: KPMG (Florent Steck, Stephane Kuster)

Argos Wityu: Gilles Mougenot, Thomas Ribéreau, Pierre Dumas
M&A: Canaccord Genuity (Olivier Dardel, Lucas Vuillemin, Mohamed Sagou)
Legal advisors: Mayer Brown (Thomas Philippe, Clotilde Billat) & Xavier Jaspar
Financial DD: Eight Advisory (Eric Demuyt, Jean-Sébastien Rabus, Victor Heilweck)
Commercial and strategic DD: Emerton (Sébastien Plessis, Jean-Edmond Coutris)
Tax advisors: Arsène Taxand (Brice Picard)

Management advisors:
Legal advisors: Jeausserand Audouard (Alexandre Dejardin, Elodie Cavazza, Faustine Paoluzzo)
Tax advisors: Jeausserand Audouard (Jérémie Jeausserand, Carole Furst, Charlotte Elkoun)

PRESS CONTACTS

REVIMA
C/O CMYK & CO
CYNTHIA JORDAN
cynthia@cmykandco.com
Tel: + 33 6 86 03 97 95
ARDIAN
Headland
TOM JAMES
tjames@headlandconsultancy.co.uk
Tel: +44 207 3675 240
ARGOS WITYU
toBnext
ANTOINETTE DARPY
adarpy@tobnext.com
Tel: +33 6 72 95 07 92

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