Defence

Sabena technics takeovers Héli-Union to strengthen military helicopter MRO presence in Europe

Sabena technics takeovers Héli-Union to strengthen military helicopter MRO presence in Europe.
Patrick Molis (left) and Philippe Rochet (right) during the signing ceremony.

Sabena technics has completed the full acquisition of the Héli-Union Group to strengthen its position in the military helicopter maintenance sector to build up as a leading European player in the helicopter supply and maintenance market.

Sabena technics has completed the full acquisition of the Héli-Union Group, marking a strategic move to strengthen its position in the military helicopter maintenance sector. Supported by its shareholders Sagard, BPI France, and Towerbrook, Sabena technics aims to build a leading European player in the helicopter supply and maintenance market. The acquisition of Héli-Union, a French group with expertise in helicopter operations and maintenance, aligns with Sabena technics’ strategy to create a dedicated helicopter division, which will represent a significant portion of the Group’s turnover.

Héli-Union, with its 350 employees, is recognized for its extensive experience as a global helicopter operator and has emerged as a major player in rotary wing maintenance. The group has a strong track record of conducting operations, including substantial work for the French State. With the consolidation of Héli-Union’s activities with those of Sabena technics, half of the French military helicopter fleet is expected to benefit from the services provided by the combined group, establishing a robust reference for export development.

“The acquisition of Heli-Union represents a major strategic step for Sabena technics. We are now able to provide a rotary wing offer similar to our fixed wing offer for military aircraft. Doing so, we are strengthening our position as an independent European MRO provider of efficient and robust solutions in line with the growing expectations of our customers. Our two Groups share a similar culture and human values. We are fully confident in our ability to achieve a perfect integration and are convinced that this merger will create value”, said Philippe Rochet, CEO,Sabena technics.

The acquisition enhances Sabena technics’ capabilities in the rotary wing sector, allowing the company to provide a comprehensive range of services similar to its offerings for fixed-wing aircraft in the military sector.

The strategic move not only strengthens Sabena technics’ maintenance capabilities but also enhances its training capacities, particularly for pilots. Additionally, the acquisition expands the company’s international presence with locations in six new countries. Sabena technics envisions leveraging the expertise and resources gained through the acquisition to further develop its helicopter services and meet the evolving needs of the military helicopter market.

As part of the integration process, Patrick Molis, from Héli-Union, will join the board of directors of Sabena technics, contributing to business continuity and ensuring a smooth transition. Jonathan Cosson will take over the general management of Héli-Union, with plans to expand their scope by integrating the helicopter activities of Sabena technics. The collaboration between the two groups is expected to create synergies and strengthen their collective position in the competitive military helicopter maintenance sector.

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In conclusion, Sabena technics’ completion of the full acquisition of Héli-Union marks a significant strategic step in expanding its presence and capabilities in the military helicopter maintenance sector. The move aligns with the company’s long-term strategy to become a leading European player in the helicopter supply and maintenance market. By combining resources, expertise, and values, Sabena technics aims to deliver robust and efficient solutions to meet the growing expectations of its customers in the military aviation sector. The acquisition not only enhances maintenance capabilities but also positions the company for international growth and increased competitiveness.

Question- Why did Sabena technics acquire Héli-Union?
Answer– To strengthen their position in the military helicopter maintenance sector and become a leading European player in the market.

Question- What benefits does Sabena technics gain from this acquisition?
Answer- Expands their service offerings to include comprehensive maintenance for rotary-wing aircraft, enhances training capabilities, and broadens their international reach.

Question- How will the integration of the two companies proceed?
Answer- Héli-Union’s expertise will be leveraged to develop helicopter services further. Key personnel from both companies will collaborate to ensure smooth integration and business continuity.