• civil maritime surveillance capabilities, under contract with the Australian Border Force;
• fixed-wing search-and-rescue resources for the Australian Maritime Safety Authority; and
• a mission aircrew training system, with over 30 mission aircrew taking part annually.

According to a release from Leidos, the acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals.

“Cobham’s Special Mission team conducts essential operations that protect Australia’s borders, support law enforcement and environmental protection and save lives,” Roger Krone, chairman and CEO of Leidos, said.

“The integration of Special Mission into Leidos Australia will expand the scope of our global airborne ISR capabilities, diversify revenues, and open up new growth avenues.”

According to Kim Gillis, chairman of Cobham Aviation Services, they are a “perfect match”.

“Leidos has remarkably complementary operations to Cobham Special Mission in airborne ISR, as well as deep platform integration expertise, and both organisations uphold exceptional track records of delivering mission critical services to government and defence customers,” Gillis explained.

The acquisition has been applauded by Paul Chase, chief executive of Leidos Australia, explaining that the acquisition would broaden Leidos Australia’s local capabilities.

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“I have the greatest respect and admiration for Cobham’s Special Mission team and their performance in service to the government,” he said.

“The addition of the Special Mission business will bring new, expansive services to our offerings across Australia. I look forward to working with this exceptional team.”