PARIS - After a detailed and comprehensive portfolio assessment, Airbus Defence and Space will exit the electronics and security business and focus on its core strengths in space (launchers & satellites), military aircraft, missiles and related systems and services.
As part of this restructuring, the company said it would sell its Professional Mobile Radio secure communications assets as well as its 49-percent stake in Atlas Elektronik. These operations were originally added to the portfolio as part of diversification efforts into the electronics and security domains. Also on the auction block are ESG, and three smaller units: Fairchild Controls, Rostock System-Technik and AvDef. In addition, Airbus Group is exploring options on its commercial and non-governmental satellite communications activities.
"The portfolio decisions for Airbus Defence and Space are the logical follow-up to our Group Strategy Review in 2013. They will foster the strengths of the division and, hence, will result in an even stronger focus on our Group's core activities, aeronautics and space," said Tom Enders, CEO of Airbus Group.
“Given the tight budgetary situation in our home countries and increasing competition on global markets, the portfolio review is an essential element to further develop our defence and space business and to ensure its competitiveness”, said Bernhard Gerwert, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space. “We have identified those segments where this is an achievable target and those where we should explore alternative options. In short, the portfolio review is a logical next step in the overall transformation process. It will strengthen Airbus Defence and Space's business core, unlocking its full potential to drive the defence and space industry forwards, particularly on critically important international growth markets.
All these decisions will of course respect our national security agreements and will be discussed with employee representatives in a fair and open way”, added Bernhard Gerwert.