SH09 Helicopter will Strengthen Leonardo Innovation Position
Leonardo has closed the acquisition of Kopter Group AG from Lynnwood (Schweiz), the company announced on 8 April.
The acquisition of Kopter allows Leonardo to further strengthen its leadership position in the rotorcraft sector, in line with its Industrial Plan objectives for reinforcement of the core businesses. The purchase price, on a cash and debt-free basis, consists of a $185 million (€170 million) fixed component, plus an earn-out mechanism linked to certain milestones over the life of the programme, starting from 2022.
Based primarily in Switzerland, Kopter has developed the SH09 single-engined helicopter, which combines the latest technologies and safety features, providing excellent performance at affordable cost for a variety of applications. The aircraft is a perfect fit for Leonardo’s state-of-the-art product range, offering opportunities for future technological developments. It will benefit from Leonardo’s industrial know-how, service and training experience and commercial network, while allowing the parent company to achieve an even greater range of offer and market footprint.
Leonardo will leverage the innovation, new capabilities and engineering skills developed by the young, agile Swiss company, whose complementary competencies will boost future developments towards more disruptive technologies, mission capabilities and performance, including innovative hybrid/electrical propulsion solutions. Kopter will operate as an autonomous legal entity within Leonardo’s Helicopter Division.