Lockheed Martin Leads Race to Acquire Naval Defense Group Ultra Maritime for $3.5 Billion
Quick Look
- Defense giant Lockheed Martin is reportedly leading the acquisition of naval defense group Ultra Maritime for approximately $3.5 billion.
- Ultra Maritime, owned by Advent International, specializes in anti-submarine technology and electronic warfare systems.
- The deal could be announced this week.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
Defense heavyweight Lockheed Martin is reportedly close to acquiring naval defense group Ultra Maritime, which specializes in anti-submarine technology, for approximately $3.5 billion.
Defense heavyweight Lockheed Martin is leading the race to buy naval defense group Ultra Maritime, CNBC has learned.
The deal to acquire Ultra is roughly $3.5 billion, and Guggenheim and JPMorgan are advising on the sell side, according to sources close to CNBC.
Ultra is owned by private equity firm Advent International, and specializes in anti-submarine technology. The company makes radar and electronic warfare systems, as well as torpedo defense countermeasures.
A Financial Times report last week said that talks were still ongoing and a deal could be announced as early as this week.
Advent was reportedly put up for sale earlier in 2026 for more than 3 billion pounds, or $4 billion.
Lockheed Martin is one of the world's largest defense firms, producing planes such as the F-35 Lightning II fighter jet and munitions like the Patriot air defense missile.
Defense stocks have enjoyed a bumper year in 2026, as conflicts from Ukraine to Iran increase demand for munitions worldwide.
What to Watch
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
Deal announcement expected within the week.
Likely · Within days
Open Questions
- Will other defense companies make competing bids?
- What is the specific impact on Ultra Maritime's existing contracts?
- What is Advent International's next investment focus?
