
Woodward Finalizes Acquisition of Safran’s North American Electromechanical Actuation Business
Woodward, Inc. a global leader in aerospace and industrial energy control systems, has officially completed its acquisition of Safran’s Electronics & Defense electromechanical actuation business located in North America. The deal, initially announced in December 2024, represents a significant strategic move by Woodward to expand its technological capabilities and customer reach within the aerospace sector.
The transaction encompasses key operations across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. As part of the deal, Woodward has acquired a broad array of assets, including valuable intellectual property, manufacturing and operational infrastructure, highly specialized personnel, and critical long-term customer contracts. One of the standout assets in the portfolio is the Horizontal Stabilizer Trim Actuation (HSTA) system, a vital component for aircraft stabilization. This system is prominently used in the Airbus A350, a next-generation wide-body aircraft, and represents one of the most advanced applications of electromechanical actuation technology in large commercial aviation today.
The acquisition also includes other electromechanical systems and electronic control units that support a variety of commercial and business aviation platforms. These products are aligned with the increasing demand for high-performance, low-maintenance electromechanical alternatives to traditional hydraulic systems, making the acquisition a timely addition to Woodward’s growing aerospace portfolio.
Chip Blankenship, Chairman and CEO of Woodward, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, “This acquisition expands our electromechanical actuation portfolio and is an important element of our Aerospace growth strategy. We are excited to welcome our new team members.” He further added, “We continue to focus our investments on products that have potential to create the most value for our customers and shareholders. The A350 HSTA and the other added technologies fit very well into our electromechanical and electronic controls capabilities and enhance our pedigree with primary flight controls on commercial and business aircraft.”
Blankenship also emphasized the company’s focus on seamless integration. “Our teams will now work to ensure the integration process supports an efficient transition for team members and for customers,” he said, underlining Woodward’s commitment to maintaining operational excellence and continuity throughout the transition period.
Although the acquisition holds strong strategic significance, Woodward has clarified that it is not financially material in terms of immediate revenue impact. Consequently, specific financial details of the transaction have not been disclosed. However, the company has noted that any material developments related to the acquisition will be included in its upcoming periodic reports, in compliance with regulatory requirements.
The decision to acquire Safran’s North American electromechanical actuation business reflects a broader trend in the aerospace industry toward electrification and enhanced control systems. As aircraft manufacturers continue to seek more efficient, lighter, and maintenance-friendly systems, companies like Woodward are positioning themselves at the forefront of this shift by investing in electromechanical technologies that meet the performance demands of next-generation aircraft.
With the integration of Safran’s electromechanical assets and workforce, Woodward significantly enhances its capabilities in primary flight control systems. The newly acquired technologies and talent will bolster Woodward’s existing competencies and support its ongoing efforts to deliver innovative energy control solutions for aerospace customers around the world.