Italian helicopter maker Leonardo announced it has closed its acquisition of Kopter Group for US$185 million plus an earn-out mechanism linked to certain milestones over the life of the programme, starting from 2022. Leonardo said the acquisition of Kopter “allows Leonardo to further strengthen its worldwide leadership and position in the rotorcraft sector.”
Primarily based in Switzerland, Kopter has been operating since 2009, originally designated Marenco Swiss Helicopter and later rebranded as Kopter Group AG in 2018. Within the helicopter division of Leonardo, Kopter will act as an autonomous legal entity and competence centre working in coordination with Leonardo.
Kopter’s SH09, a new single engine helicopter, was called the “perfect fit” for Leonardo’s line-up by officials prior to the sale’s closing.