ESG ELEKTRONIKSYSTEM- UND LOGISTIK acquired by HENSOLDT GROUP
Context
HENSOLDT Group has signed a definitive agreement to acquire 100 % of ESG Elektroniksystem- und Logistik‑GmbH from an investment vehicle managed by Armira Beteiligungen GmbH & Co. KG. The transaction includes an earn‑out linked to ESG’s performance targets through the end of 2024 and is subject to customary regulatory approvals, with completion anticipated in the first half of 2024. The acquisition aligns ESG’s software engineering and systems‑integration expertise with HENSOLDT’s sensor portfolio, creating a combined offering that addresses digital battlefield solutions, integrated network capabilities and multi‑domain operations. By adding ESG’s proven track record in major defence programmes, HENSOLDT strengthens its position in European defence markets and expands its ability to deliver end‑to‑end solutions for customers in air, land and naval domains. Post‑closing, the combined entity expects to realise significant cost synergies through streamlined engineering processes and shared procurement, while cross‑selling opportunities are projected to enhance revenue streams across existing customer bases. The integration is planned to accelerate cash‑flow generation, improve free‑cash‑flow conversion and support higher return on invested capital, with financing provided via a capital increase and new debt facilities. The transaction is backed by the German federal shareholder and aims to reinforce the group’s long‑term growth trajectory while maintaining a strong domestic presence.
ESG ELEKTRONIKSYSTEM- UND LOGISTIK, which reported an EBITDA margin of 13.9% in 2023, is valued in this transaction at an EV/EBITDA multiple of 14.7x, representing a premium to the average currently observed in the Industry & Manufacturing sector (11.5x).
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Target
ESG Elektroniksystem- und Logistik-GmbH, founded in 1967, operates as a platform‑independent systems integrator and technology partner for defence and public security. The company designs, integrates, supports and operates complex electronic and IT systems that are safety‑critical for armed forces, governmental authorities and industrial customers. Its portfolio includes mission‑equipment, software, data‑network solutions and lifecycle services for air, land and naval platforms. ESG participates in major programmes such as the Future Combat Air System and the F‑35, providing engineering, certification and integration expertise required for advanced combat aircraft. The firm maintains a capex‑light model, generating the majority of revenue from engineering services, system integration contracts and long‑term support agreements. Revenue growth has consistently been in the low double‑digit range, supported by an EBITDA margin near 14 % and cash‑flow generation that funds internal investments. ESG employs roughly 1,380 staff located in Germany, the Netherlands and the United States, and holds approvals under EASA Part 21J, Part 21G and Part 145, enabling it to serve both national and export customers. The business model relies on close collaboration with defence ministries, original equipment manufacturers and prime contractors to deliver customised, mission‑specific solutions across the full system lifecycle.
Ent. Value
FREE VIEW675M EUR
Equity Value
Multiples
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EV / Revenue
2.0x
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EV / EBITDA
14.7x
EV / EBIT
Historical Financials (EUR)
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REFERENCES
Valuation range: EV 500M - 1.5b EUR
Revenue range: 250M - 500M EUR
EBITDA range: 25M - 50M EUR
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Press release: view release
Acquirer: hensoldt group