Firefly Aerospace Acquires SciTec for $855M, Bolstering Defense Capabilities Despite Launch Setbacks
Firefly Aerospace has made significant strides in its space missions and acquisitions. The company, currently on contract for two Space Force missions, recently agreed to buy SciTec, a software-centric firm specializing in big data analysis, missile tracking, and remote sensing, for approximately $855 million. This deal comes after a setback in September when a booster for one of their launch vehicles exploded on the launchpad.
Firefly's Alpha Flight 7 launch vehicle suffered a booster explosion during a pre-flight ground test on September 30. Despite this incident, Firefly CEO Jason Kim expressed confidence in the company's capabilities, stating that the acquisition of SciTec enhances their ability to support defense missions and provides a significant operational advantage in the space industry.
SciTec brings mission-proven software and big data processing capabilities to Firefly, enabling rapid, accurate information for informed decisions to protect against emerging threats. The acquisition is expected to close by the end of the year.
Firefly was also subcontracted to provide launch services for True Anomaly's Victus Haze mission, which has been delayed due to a separate launch failure by Firefly in April. SciTec, under contract with Space Systems Command, provides software for the Future Operationally Resilient Ground Evolution (FORGE) ground system for various missile warning satellite constellations. In 2021, SciTec won a Space Development Agency contract to demonstrate mission data processing software for its first prototype Tracking Layer satellites.
The acquisition of SciTec by Firefly Aerospace is set to strengthen the company's position in the space industry, providing diversified revenue streams and helping Firefly evolve into a mature, money-making company. Despite recent setbacks, Firefly continues to progress in its missions and acquisitions, demonstrating resilience and commitment to its goals in the space science and technology sector.
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