HEICO to acquire AeroAntenna Technology Inc.

HEICO Corporation of Miami, FL announced on August 18 that its Electronic Technologies Group entered into a stock purchase agreement to acquire 100% of the stock of AeroAntenna Technology Inc. (“AAT”).

Chatsworth, CA-based AAT is a leader in the design and production of high performance active antenna systems for critical defense applications, precision guided munitions, commercial aircraft and other commercial uses. AAT is a known leader in numerous antenna types, including GPS, aircraft navigation and satellite communications antennas.

HEICO stated the purchase price is $316.5 million in cash to be paid at closing, subject to typical post-closing adjustments, and a $20 million cash earnout payment if AAT meets its earnings targets. This transaction is the largest purchase in HEICO’s history. The purchase price includes approximately $37 million to compensate the sellers for certain tax elections which will result in a net cash tax benefit to HEICO worth at least that amount.

HEICO expects the acquisition to be accretive to its earnings within the first year following closing and stated that the purchase price falls within the typical earnings multiple the Company targets for acquisitions. HEICO will finance the purchase through its cash balances and existing revolving credit facility. Additional financial details were not disclosed.

Founded in 1991 by Yosef (“Joe”) Klein, AAT has developed a recognized brand name in its industry through its unique product offering and continuously innovative research and development platform.

AAT employs approximately 140 people at its 30,000 square foot facility in Chatsworth, CA. HEICO stated that AAT would continue to operate in the same location with current management in place. No material staff turnover is expected post-acquisition.

Laurans Mendelson, chairman and chief executive officer of HEICO Corporation, along with Victor Mendelson, HEICO’s co-president and chief executive officer of the Electronics Technologies Group, jointly commented, “AAT is a great fit for HEICO. Their commitment to the highest quality antennas and focus on customer needs have been the key ingredients to their long-term success. These principles are an important part of HEICO’s DNA and we are excited to partner with a like-minded organization. We are also fortunate that AAT has an outstanding management team lead by its founder and president, Joe Klein. We welcome Joe and his entire AAT team to the HEICO family.”

Joe Klein, AAT’s president, remarked, “We are thrilled to partner with HEICO. From the moment we met, there was an immediate chemistry between our two teams. I could not be more excited to join the HEICO team and look forward to the future.”

The transaction is subject to clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act and other customary closing conditions. Closing is expected promptly after receipt of antitrust clearance and satisfaction of the closing conditions.

Source: HEICO