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Kanders & Company Announces Definitive Agreement to Acquire Antenna and Test Equipment Businesses from L3Harris

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Kanders & Company, Inc. announces the acquisition of antenna and test equipment businesses from L3Harris Technologies to form Fisica, Inc., a new defense technology platform. The $200 million deal brings together skilled manufacturers of antennas and electromagnetic systems for defense applications, positioning Fisica for growth and success in the industry.
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The acquisition of antenna and test equipment businesses by Kanders & Company under the Fisica platform represents a strategic consolidation within the defense technology sector. The $200 million transaction signals confidence in the electronic warfare and communications market, particularly given the enduring nature of defense contracts and the increasing global emphasis on advanced defense capabilities. The integration of these units could lead to enhanced product offerings and operational synergies, potentially increasing Fisica's competitive edge in bidding for government contracts.

Moreover, the involvement of existing management suggests continuity that may benefit customer relationships and product development. The price point, with a mix of cash and seller financing, indicates a structured deal that manages liquidity risks for Kanders. This move could pave the way for further acquisitions, positioning Fisica as a more formidable player in the defense industry landscape. It's important to monitor how this consolidation affects market competition and whether it triggers additional mergers and acquisitions within the sector.

The financial structure of the deal between Kanders & Company and L3Harris Technologies reflects a calculated investment approach. Paying $175 million in cash and a $25 million seller note is a significant outlay and the use of seller financing suggests a strategic move to maintain cash reserves while also potentially providing tax benefits. This type of financing may also indicate L3Harris's confidence in Fisica's future performance.

Investors should consider the impact of this acquisition on L3Harris's financials, including potential changes in revenue streams and profit margins. For Kanders, the deal size relative to their investment portfolio and the expected return on investment are key factors to evaluate. The defense sector often provides stable, long-term revenues, which could make this acquisition accretive to Kanders's earnings over time. The success of the acquisition will likely hinge on Fisica's ability to integrate the businesses and realize cost efficiencies while maintaining strong relationships with defense primes and the U.S. Department of Defense.

The creation of Fisica by Kanders & Company taps into the growing demand for sophisticated defense technology. The defense industry is characterized by high barriers to entry and long sales cycles, but it also offers substantial rewards for firms that can secure contracts with major defense primes and government entities. Fisica's newly acquired businesses boast a history dating back to the 1960s, suggesting a solid reputation and established expertise in the field of airborne and ground-based antennas, as well as electromagnetic systems.

Given the current geopolitical climate, investment in defense is likely to remain a priority for governments, including the U.S. This could mean a favorable market environment for Fisica, with opportunities for organic growth and further acquisitions. However, it's important to track how Fisica integrates these assets and whether it can meet the evolving needs of the defense sector. The success of the platform will also depend on its ability to navigate the regulatory landscape and maintain technological leadership in a highly competitive market.

Creates New Fisica Platform to Build and Acquire a Leading Defense Technology Portfolio

PALM BEACH, Fla., April 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Kanders & Company, Inc. ("Kanders"), a U.S.-based single-family office, announced today that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire and combine certain antenna and test equipment businesses from L3Harris Technologies (NYSE: LHX) for $200 million.

The acquisition brings together three separate business units under Kanders' newly formed Fisica, Inc. ("Fisica") platform. With roots dating back to the 1960s, the acquired businesses are known as skilled manufacturers of airborne and ground-based antennas, and electromagnetic systems and simulators for applications across radar, communications, warning systems, remote sensing, nuclear effects testing and imaging. Fisica will be well positioned for continued growth and success as a critical partner for flagship defense primes and the U.S. Department of Defense.

"We are excited to announce the agreement to acquire these businesses from L3Harris and partner with existing management to launch a new platform in the defense industry," said Warren B. Kanders, President of Kanders and Chairman and CEO of Fisica. "As the electronic warfare and communications space continues to evolve, we believe Fisica's product portfolio, long-standing customer relationships and stable program base position the combined businesses to grow both organically and through targeted acquisitions."

Under the terms of the agreement, Kanders will pay L3Harris $175 million in cash at closing and a $25 million seller note. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2024, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.

Fisica will be based in San Leandro, Calif., with additional operations in Menlo Park and Simi Valley, Calif.

About Kanders & Company, Inc.

Kanders & Company, Inc., based in Palm Beach, Florida, is a single-family office owned and controlled by Warren B. Kanders. Mr. Kanders has more than 35 years of experience investing in public and private companies across a variety of sectors, acting as an active strategic partner for enhancing operating discipline and catalyzing long-term growth.

Contacts:

Kanders & Company
Gray Hudkins
ghudkins@kanders.com
(203) 550-7148

Media
Aura Reinhard / Tim Ragones
Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher
(212) 355-4449 

Cision View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kanders--company-announces-definitive-agreement-to-acquire-antenna-and-test-equipment-businesses-from-l3harris-302109270.html

SOURCE Kanders & Company, Inc.

FAQ

What is the name of the newly formed defense technology platform after the acquisition?

The newly formed defense technology platform after the acquisition is Fisica, Inc.

What is the total amount agreed upon for the acquisition of certain businesses from L3Harris Technologies?

The total amount agreed upon for the acquisition is $200 million.

Where will Fisica be headquartered after the acquisition?

Fisica will be headquartered in San Leandro, Calif., with additional operations in Menlo Park and Simi Valley, Calif.

Who is the President of Kanders & Company, Inc. and the Chairman and CEO of Fisica?

The President of Kanders & Company, Inc. and the Chairman and CEO of Fisica is Warren B. Kanders.

When is the transaction expected to close?

The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2024, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.

L3Harris Technologies, Inc.

NYSE:LHX

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