Molex acquires US aerospace connector manufacturer AirBorn

Molex will acquire Texas-based AirBorn to gain access to its robust aerospace connector technology and skills, as well as its UK-based manufacturing capabilities, but the details of the deal were not disclosed. AirBorn specializes in designing and manufacturing connectors and electronic components, such as VPX power systems, for global original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), serving the aerospace and defense, commercial aviation, space exploration, medical, and industrial markets. The company has nine manufacturing facilities worldwide, including one in Edenbridge, Kent, UK, as well as seven in the United States and one in Canada. "The acquisition of AirBorn brings strong capabilities to Molex in the aerospace market," said Joe Nžan, chief executive of Molex. "Combining Molex's engineering breadth and manufacturing scale with AirBorn's expertise in rugged, mission-critical products will enable us to better meet the changing needs of our customers in this fast-growing global market." "AirBorn will be the platform for Molex's aerospace and defence business, which represents a powerful opportunity for our highly specialised team," said Michael Cole, president and chief executive of Georgetown, Texas-based AirBorn. "By combining AirBorn's unique expertise in the aerospace and defence market with Molex's global scale, capabilities and financial stability, we will ensure long-term success in a rapidly expanding category." The acquisition is expected to close in early December 2024, subject to regulatory approval.