- BAE Systems has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Ball Aerospace for approximately $5.55 billion, marking a significant expansion into the space sector.
- The acquisition is aimed at complementing BAE Systems’ diverse product and service set, aligning with the growing U.S. government demand for advanced space systems.
BAE Systems to Make a Bold Entry into the Space Sector with Ball Aerospace Acquisition
August 17, 2023, FALLS CHURCH, Va. BAE Systems, a global defense, aerospace, and security company, today announced a definitive agreement for the proposed acquisition of Ball Aerospace, a leader in space systems and national security, for approximately $5.55 billion.
A Strategic Alignment
This acquisition is set to complement BAE Systems’ existing portfolio and culture, with Ball Aerospace’s legacy of advances in national security space architecture, mission-enabling technologies, and scientific discoveries. The move represents a significant opportunity for BAE Systems to acquire a high-quality, technology-based business with market-leading space and defense capabilities aimed at solving customers’ most pressing challenges.
Expanding Capabilities and Market Reach
“This marquee acquisition would advance our company’s position in some of the fastest-growing segments of the defense market and further increase our alignment with enduring customer priorities in both the U.S. National Defense Strategy and U.S. Intelligence Strategy,” said Tom Arseneault, President and CEO of BAE Systems, Inc. “We believe BAE Systems and Ball Aerospace share a culture of mission-driven innovation and operational excellence. We look forward to sustaining the historic legacy of Ball Aerospace and investing in its future.”
According to the announcement, Ball Aerospace’s space-related programs account for approximately 70% of its projected 2023 revenues of $2.2 billion. The remaining balance is attributable to mission-enabling technologies and R&D for the warfighter across land, sea, and air domains.
A Robust Platform for Space Strategy
The acquisition of Ball Aerospace is expected to provide BAE Systems with a robust platform to accelerate its space strategy. Ball Aerospace has a long and distinguished track record as a proven partner and pioneering innovator, with expertise in spacecraft, mission payloads, optical systems, conformal antennas, and electronically steered arrays.
With trusted customer relationships among the Intelligence Community, U.S. Department of Defense, and civilian space market, the Ball Aerospace team supports the delivery of a broad set of products and differentiating technologies to meet growing customer demands.
A Future Built on Shared Values
The mutual cultures of commitment to the mission and technology-driven innovation between BAE Systems and Ball Aerospace are expected to set a solid foundation to serve the combined enterprise and its customers well into the future.
The proposed transaction is subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including required regulatory approvals.
This story is developing and will be updated as more information becomes available.
