BAE Systems has entered into an agreement to acquire Aston Harald Mekaniska Verkstad, a Sweden-based manufacturer specialising in precision-machined, large and complex structures for aerospace, defence and commercial customers, the company stated.
BAE Systems said its Bofors business has signed a share purchase agreement to pursue the acquisition of the firm, which is headquartered in Kristinehamn and employs around 100 people. Aston Harald Mekaniska Verkstad has been a long-standing supplier to BAE Systems Bofors and also supports other defence and commercial clients.
According to the company, the proposed acquisition is intended to expand BAE Systems’ industrial capacity in the European defence market and strengthen supply chain resilience. BAE Systems said the move would support delivery of systems including the Bofors ARCHER artillery system, TRIDON air defence system, and the 40 Mk4 and 57 Mk3 naval gun systems.
BAE Systems added that the two firms share cultural alignment through their Swedish heritage and mission focus, and said the acquisition would improve efficiency in delivering equipment for Sweden and other NATO allies, as well as supporting complex fabrication requirements for commercial customers across Europe.
The company said completion of the transaction remains subject to regulatory approvals and other customary pre-closing conditions, with the acquisition expected to close during the first half of the year.
