Fairbanks Morse Defense to Acquire Rolls-Royce Naval Propulsors & Handling Business

September 19, 2024

Fairbanks Morse Defense (FMD) on Thursday announced it has struck a deal with Rolls-Royce to acquire its naval propulsors and handling business. The acquisition will include a range of propellers and waterjets for naval applications, as well as marine handling systems, which enable the deployment and recovery of manned and unmanned craft, and other cargo, from naval vessels.

“When you look at the 150-year history of Fairbanks Morse Defense, you will find a handful of distinctive moments that completely transformed this company. We believe the acquisition of Rolls-Royce naval propulsors and handling businesses will become one of those moments,” said George Whittier, CEO of Fairbanks Morse Defense. “The way that our products and services complement each other is unmatched in the defense industrial base. Combining our capabilities allows Fairbanks Morse Defense to substantially increase what we offer to our U.S. maritime defense customers while also offering our systems and components solutions to Rolls-Royce's global customer base.”  

(File photo: Marianne Guemo / U.S. Navy)
(File photo: Marianne Guemo / U.S. Navy)

The acquisition will add the following to the Fairbanks Morse Defense portfolio:

Rolls-Royce Naval-Marine propellers can be found on all the U.S. aircraft carriers currently in service and are also used on U.S. Navy fleet supports, amphibious ships, surface combatants, submarines and more, as well as on U.S. Coast Guard vessels. Rolls-Royce handling systems are found on many of the U.S. Navy’s surface combatants.

“Rolls-Royce Naval Propulsors & Handling is an industry leader and trusted supplier to navies around the world. We are pleased to collaborate with Fairbanks Morse Defense, who recognizes the value of this business and the outstanding opportunities for its strong future.” said Adam Riddle, President – Defense and Chairman & CEO, Rolls-Royce North America. “We believe this transaction represents the best outcome for the business, its people, and the military customers they serve.” 

Fairbanks Morse Defense, a portfolio company of Arcline Investment Management and a key contractor for the U.S. Navy, has built up its portfolio that now includes engines, electrical hardware, motors, valves, cranes, davit systems, fans, fittings, and water treatment solutions.

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