CVC announces its plan to acquire Smiths Detection for £2 billion
CVC, a premier private markets investment firm, revealed today that it has agreed to acquire Smiths Detection, a global leader in threat-detection and security-screening technologies for airports and critical infrastructure, from Smiths Group plc. With CVC’s track record of executing corporate carve-outs and scaling newly independent companies, Smiths Detection is well-positioned to strengthen its market leadership and unlock substantial long-term value.
Headquartered in the United Kingdom, Smiths Detection employs 3,400 people, including over 1,100 field service engineers and more than 500 research and development professionals. The company operates from facilities across Europe, the United States, and Asia and holds a global #1 position in aviation security, providing screening technology for carry-on bags, checked luggage, and air cargo at airports. It serves 47 of the world’s top 50 airports and combines industry-leading hardware with advanced digital capabilities, such as automated detection algorithms. Beyond aviation, Smiths Detection serves other critical infrastructure sectors, including urban security (screening systems for government and commercial buildings, public venues, and spaces) and ports and borders (cargo and vehicle inspection). The business also possesses a leading niche capability in chemical threat identification for defense end-markets.
Dominic Murphy, a Managing Partner and Co-Head of the UK private equity team at CVC, and Conor Keogh, Managing Director at CVC, commented: “Smiths Detection’s industry-leading threat detection and security-screening technologies play a vital role in protecting people and critical infrastructure worldwide. We look forward to supporting the company’s next growth phase through ongoing investment in technology innovation, high-quality engineering, and best-in-class aftermarket service.”
James Mahoney, Partner and Head of CVC’s private equity activities in Aviation, Defence & Space, added: “We’re excited to partner with Jérôme de Chassey and his team. Smiths Detection’s strong market positions, anchored by global leadership in aviation, offer a compelling platform for long-term value creation.”
The deal is subject to standard regulatory approvals and is expected to close in the second half of 2026. Barclays served as financial advisor and Latham & Watkins acted as legal counsel to CVC.
The investment will be financed through CVC Capital Partners IX.
