Inflexion has sold Avantus Aerospace, a California-based manufacturer of aerospace components, to U.S. private-equity firm Arcline Investment Management in a transaction valued at approximately $1.1 billion, according to a person familiar with the matter.

Avantus Aerospace, formerly known as Shimtech, was acquired in 2015 in a $220 million buyout backed by Inflexion and aerospace investor Auctus Industries. Shimtech specialized in the production of shims—thin, precisely engineered components used to fill gaps and ensure structural integrity in aircraft. The company rebranded as Avantus Aerospace in 2020 and has since expanded its portfolio to include thousands of mission-critical, low-cost “C-Class” aircraft parts such as fasteners, clips, and other structural fittings.

The sale, which transfers Avantus and its subsidiaries into Novaria Group—a portfolio company under Arcline—reflects growing investor interest in aerospace and defense amid rising government defense spending and ongoing geopolitical tensions. Perella Weinberg Partners served as financial adviser to the sellers.

Inflexion noted that Avantus underwent significant operational and organizational changes following challenges posed by the suspension of the Boeing 737 MAX and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. These efforts included new senior leadership and a broad set of financial and commercial initiatives designed to strengthen the company’s position in the aerospace supply chain.

Catherine Richards, a partner at Inflexion, highlighted the aerospace sector’s robust demand in recent years, stating that Avantus had established a strong global market presence through operational investment and a focused acquisition strategy supported by experienced management.

This transaction continues a busy period of investment realizations for Inflexion, which completed several divestments over the past year, including the majority sale of skincare brand Medik8 to L’Oréal in 2025. The midmarket private equity firm also recently announced several internal promotions following the closing of its latest flagship buyout fund.

Arcline, which manages approximately $30 billion in assets, completed its fourth flagship fund last year with $6 billion in commitments. The acquisition of Avantus aligns with Arcline’s strategy of investing in aerospace and defense companies positioned to benefit from elevated government expenditure and market consolidation.