CVC has agreed to acquire Smiths Detection, the global security screening and threat detection company, in a £2 billion transaction. The deal marks one of the firm’s most significant recent corporate carve-outs and highlights its continued interest in aviation, defense, and critical infrastructure technologies. The transaction remains subject to customary regulatory approvals and is expected to close in the second half of 2026. CVC will invest through CVC Capital Partners IX.
Smiths Detection, headquartered in the United Kingdom, employs 3,400 people worldwide, including more than 1,100 field service engineers and over 500 research and development professionals. The company operates across Europe, the United States, and Asia, serving airports, ports, borders, public venues, and defense customers. It holds a leading position in the aviation security sector, working with 47 of the world’s top 50 airports and offering advanced hardware and digital capabilities, including automated detection algorithms.
The business also provides screening systems for government buildings, commercial sites, urban security environments, and cargo inspection operations, as well as chemical threat identification solutions for defense clients.
CVC said the firm plans to support Smiths Detection as a newly independent company through investment in engineering excellence, technology innovation, and aftermarket services. The acquisition is designed to help the business strengthen its market leadership positions and expand in sectors that continue to prioritize threat detection and resilience.
Support: Barclays served as financial advisor, and Latham & Watkins acted as legal counsel to CVC.
KEY QUOTES:
“Smiths Detection’s industry-leading threat detection and security screening technologies play a crucial role in helping protect people and critical infrastructure worldwide. We look forward to supporting the business during the next phase of its growth and development through continued investment in technology innovation, high-quality engineering and best-in-class aftermarket service.”
Dominic Murphy, Managing Partner and Co-Head of the UK Private Equity Team at CVC, and Conor Keogh, Managing Director at CVC
“We are excited to partner with Jérôme de Chassey and his team. Smiths Detection’s strong market positions, anchored by its global leadership in aviation, create a compelling platform for long-term value creation.”
James Mahoney, Partner and Head of CVC’s Private Equity Activities in the Aviation, Defence & Space Sectors
