Huddersfield-based defence engineering company David Brown Defence is to be acquired by the German propulsion manufacturer RENK Group AG.

The transaction, which is subject to standard official approvals, is scheduled for completion in the final quarter of 2026. Financial details of the deal have not been disclosed.

David Brown Defence, currently part of the David Brown Santasalo group, has a century-long history of developing and manufacturing transmission systems for naval and land-based military platforms. The company employs approximately 530 people at its facility in West Yorkshire and acts as a key supplier to the UK Armed Forces and international allies.

The acquisition follows a strategic realignment at the Huddersfield site in early 2024, which was designed to expand operational capacity in response to a growing order book across marine and land sectors.

The acquisition represents a significant consolidation within the European defence supply chain. By absorbing the UK firm, Frankfurt-listed RENK Group expands its footprint into the "Five Eyes" intelligence alliance nations (the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand) while adding specialised submarine propulsion technology to its existing naval and land portfolio.

Lazard acted as financial adviser and Jones Day served as legal adviser to David Brown Defence during the transaction.

Mike Helme, CEO at David Brown Defence, said: “We are very pleased to announce the acquisition of David Brown Defence by the RENK Group AG. RENK brings significant experience in the defence engineering sector and recognises the strong growth potential of the business. We are confident that the combined technological know-how and operational synergies will enhance the service we are able to offer our customers. We look forward to this exciting new chapter at David Brown Defence.”

Dr Alexander Sagel, CEO of RENK Group AG, said: “David Brown Defence provides us with access to the Five Eyes countries, strengthens our long-term access to high-value naval programs and further expands our aftermarket business. At the same time, we are broadening our existing product portfolio and technical expertise by adding submarine propulsion system technology. As a European partner, we have made a long-term commitment to Huddersfield and the UK defence industry and are delighted to be welcoming the team at David Brown Defence into the RENK family.”