Continuity Will be the Focus of New Ownership

In a move that telegraphs Hungary’s continued focus on growing and developing its defence industry sector, the Hungarian Government Commissioner for Defence, Defence Undustries and Coordination of Defence Modernisation, Gáspár Maróth, announced on 4 November that HDT Védelmi Ipari Kft has acquired 100% of Austria’s Hirtenberger Defence Group.

Emphasising that the acquisition, which took effect on 29 October, will ensure continuity in every aspect of the Group’s activities, Moróth added “Hirtenberger Defence is globally known for its technology and performance of products. We are convinced this is driven by the outstanding people at Hirtenberger. For us, it is key to maintain and further grow Hirtenberger business, technology and its outstanding customer relations. We will maintain our operations in Hirtenberg […] Our location in Middle Wallop [in the UK] will also play a major part of future growth of the Hirtenberger Defence Group.”

HDT will assume responsibility for all commercial operations and commitments to employees, customer, partners and suppliers, with current management remaining in situ to continue to drive the company’s success. The globally identifiable brand will continue to operate from all current locations.

“I am very happy to have HDT Védelmi Ipari Kft as an investor, it will allow us to further grow our business, drive our key research and development programmes and gain opportunities in the growing defence industry globally. I think we‘ll have a lot of opportunities for our customers and partners for the future,“ explained Hirtenberger Defence CEO, Carsten Barth.