Groupe Gorgé announced having reached a major milestone with the acquisition of iXblue. This operation, that will bring ECA Group and iXblue together, will lead to the rise of a European high-tech industrial champion in the fields of robotics, maritime, navigation, aerospace and photonics.

The two companies will benefit from a global workforce of 1,500 people and will achieve an annual turnover of €250 million. Together, iXblue and ECA Group will provide customers with a unique offer ranging from components to complex systems to support critical missions in severe environments.

“In addition to our complementary activities, both our companies share a common DNA centered around innovation and entrepreneurship. This acquisition by Groupe Gorgé, that puts iXblue and ECA Group under the same roof, will enable us to create new synergies and strengthen our capacity to invest in research and development to offer solutions that are always at the cutting edge of technology,” rejoiced Fabien Napolitano, President & CEO of iXblue.

Dominique Giannoni, CEO of ECA Group, added: “With the combination of the technological expertise and global footprint of the two companies, we will provide unmatched value to our customers through our comprehensive portfolio of products and solutions. This operation consolidates our leadership in our markets and offers excellent growth prospects. The teams of our two companies have already started working closely together. We see great development opportunities that we are eager to share with our customers.”

Founded in 2000, iXblue is a leading global provider of innovative solutions for navigation, photonics, and maritime autonomy for both civil and defense applications.

Recognised for its expertise in robotics, automation systems, simulation and industrial processes, ECA Group has been developing complete, innovative technological solutions for complex missions in hostile and confined environments since 1936. Its solutions are designed for an international client base that is demanding, in terms of both safety and effectiveness. The group’s main markets are in the defense, maritime, aeronautics, simulation, industrial and energy sectors. ECA Group is a Groupe Gorgé company.