QinetiQ U.S., a wholly-owned subsidiary of QinetiQ Group plc, a global defense and security company, has purchased Avantus Federal, a data, cyber and space services company, from NewSpring Holdings for an enterprise value of $590 million.

The combination of QinetiQ and Avantus aims to create an offering of comprehensive services for sensitive and complex challenges that intelligence, defense, homeland, civilian and other government customers face. The integration will combine QinetiQ’s leadership in robotics and autonomous systems, sensing, protection systems and technology services with Avantus’ experience in strategic planning, operations and stakeholder collaboration in government operations such as cyber, data, government facility and outer space services.

“This acquisition extends our customer base, strengthens our capabilities and builds scale in the largest defense and security market in the world,” comments Steve Wadey, group chief executive officer for QinetiQ Group plc. “With a strong track record of 10 percent plus growth at attractive margins, Avantus is a brilliant strategic and cultural fit and positions us to meet the increasing mission-critical needs of our U.S. defense and intelligence customers with agility and pace.”

Citizens and Gleacher Shacklock served as joint financial advisers and Baker McKenzie served as counsel to QinetiQ. Guggenheim Securities LLC served as financial adviser to Avantus and NewSpring Holdings, and Baker Tilly provided financial due diligence expertise. Blank Rome LLP and Kirkland & Ellis LLP served as counsel to Avantus.