Italian helicopter manufacturer Leonardo has announced the completion of its acquisition of Kopter Group, which produces the upcoming light single SH09 helicopter.
The Swiss company was previously a part of Lynwood and the deal was closed for roughly US$185 million.
However, under the deal, Kopter will maintain a high degree of autonomy, operating its design and manufacturing arms separate to Leonardo.
The multimillion-dollar arrangement also includes an earn-out mechanism, which allows Kopter to increase stock ownership through driving the single-engine helicopter program.
Among other assets, Kopter acquired a North American home in Bell Helicopter’s former Louisiana facility last year. The site, based near the Lafayette Regional Airport, will allow Leonardo to upscale its production capabilities.
In a press statement released by Leonardo, the company said, “The acquisition of Kopter allows Leonardo to further strengthen its worldwide leadership and position in the rotorcraft sector, in line with Leonardo’s Industrial Plan objectives for the reinforcement of the core businesses.
“Kopter’s SH09, a new single-engine helicopter, is a perfect fit for Leonardo’s product range, offering opportunities for future technological developments.”
