A German defence manufacturer has acquired David Brown Defence, a British supplier known for its historical connection to the Spitfire fighter aircraft used during the Battle of Britain. The deal, valued at approximately $200 million, brings together two companies with legacies on opposite sides of World War II.

Renk, headquartered in Augsburg, Bavaria, confirmed the purchase of David Brown Defence, which is based in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire. Founded in 1860, David Brown supplied gear systems for the Spitfires that fought against the German Luftwaffe in 1940. The company also produced gearboxes for the Churchill tank and components for British bombers deployed in campaigns targeting German cities such as Hamburg and Dresden.

Renk, established in 1873, was integral to Germany’s war industry during World War II, manufacturing gearboxes for tanks used by the Wehrmacht. Currently, both companies specialize in high-precision transmission systems for military applications, including heavy armored vehicles, tracked military platforms, and naval vessels. Renk supplies gearboxes for Germany’s Leopard 2 main battle tank, while David Brown produces components for the British Army’s Challenger tank.

In recent history, Renk was affected by a German arms export embargo against Israel, which briefly halted its ability to supply parts for Israeli tanks. The company considered relocating some production abroad to continue these exports. The embargo was lifted following a ceasefire announcement in Gaza.

Renk’s chief executive Alexander Sagel described the acquisition as a positive step in supporting the defense capabilities of the United Kingdom. He characterized the transaction as "really exciting" and aligned with Renk’s strategy to leverage increased European defense spending through targeted acquisitions. Sagel highlighted David Brown’s strong position in the naval sector and its involvement in significant defense programs in the UK, Canada, and Australia, noting their longevity and value.

David Brown Defence is owned by private equity firm Stellex Capital Management, which did not provide comments on the transaction.

This acquisition reflects a broader trend of European defense firms expanding their footprint by acquiring UK-based companies that compete for contracts with the British Ministry of Defence. Earlier this year, Belgian firearms manufacturer FN Browning Group acquired UK sniper rifle maker Accuracy International as part of similar consolidation activity in the defense sector.