January 22, 2025
Fincantieri recently completed the acquisition of Leonardo S.p.A.’s Underwater Armaments & Systems (UAS) business line. The acquisition was executed through the purchase of the entire share capital of WASS Submarine Systems S.r.l., a newly established company to which the UAS business line was previously transferred.
A Fincantieri press release noted the transaction is part of Fincantieri Group‘s strategy to expand its naval defense business and capabilities in the underwater domain. The statement said the acquisition positions the company as a key technology integrator in dual-use sectors.
As outlined in the preliminary agreement with Leonardo on May 9, 2024, Fincantieri paid $300 million as the fixed component of the acquisition price. A variable component, tied to UAS’s 2024 growth targets, will be determined after the approval of the business line’s final results for the fiscal year. The total enterprise value, including the fixed component, could reach up to $432 million, subject to price adjustment mechanisms.
This acquisition provides Fincantieri with specialized expertise in underwater acoustic technologies and advanced weapon systems, the company said. Fincantieri expects these capabilities are expected to enhance growth opportunities in military and civilian markets, including critical infrastructure security and industrial applications.