Fairbanks Morse Defense (FMD) on Wednesday said it has acquired Welin Lambie, a designer and manufacturer of davits used in shipyards and on ships to launch and recover vessels, a deal that fits with the company’s strategy to become a full-service supplier to its defense and commercial customers.
The value of the transaction wasn’t disclosed. Welin Lambie, which is based in the United Kingdom, has 34 employees.
FMD, which is based in Wisconsin and is best known for its engines that power ships, is pursuing acquisitions to enable it to become a full-service provider for its defense customers, which include the Navy, Coast Guard and Canadian Coast Guard, so that they have a one-stop shop for vessel repairs and services.
“As naval forces around the world upgrade existing vessels and expand their fleets, the demand for local, high-quality aftermarket services is greater than ever before,” George Whittier, FMD’s CEO, said in a statement. “Our acquisition of Welin Lambie brings Fairbanks Morse Defense one step closer to becoming a full-service provider for our core marine customers so we can better support their mission-critical operations.”
Welin Lambie, which has been operating for 120 years, provides davits used to lift, launch and recover all types of craft, including unmanned. The company’s customers include the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard and its davits are installed on the Navy’s amphibious vessels, Littoral Combat Ships, CVN aircraft carriers, frigates being built in the U.S. for the Royal Saudi Navy, and the Coast Guard.
FMD said the addition of Welin Lambie’s products will help in the launch and recovery of uncrewed craft and mission packages that are expected to become more widely used. The company’s davits were also installed on the Titanic.
Earlier this year, FMD acquired Ward Leonard, which provides motor and control solutions for marine power, and Hunt Valve, which offers valves and actuators for Navy, industrial and energy customers. In late 2020, FMD acquired diesel engine repair and rebuilding service provider BRECO International. The recent deals added new product portfolios and boost its aftermarket support services.
“From six strategically located service centers, FMD’s factory-certified technicians also provide an extensive portfolio of services and a large inventor of OEM parts to optimize performance, ensure reliability and extend asset lifecycles,” Whittier told Defense Daily in an email reply to questions. “We will continue seeking out opportunities to add proprietary, mission-critical equipment and expand our service capabilities to meet our goal of being a full-service provider to the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard.”
FMD is a portfolio company of Arcline Investment Management.