In a strategic move to enhance its space and defense mission solutions for the U.S. national security community, LightRidge Solutions, a portfolio company of ATL Partners, has announced the acquisition of Trident Systems. Trident Systems is widely recognized as a premier provider of high-performance space electronics and C4ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) solutions. The financial terms of the transaction have not been disclosed.
This acquisition marks the third addition to the LightRidge platform, which was established in 2021 with a focus on delivering technology-forward, high-performance, and cost-effective national security solutions. LightRidge’s existing portfolio includes GEOST, a leading provider of high-end space payloads acquired in 2021, and Ophir Corporation, a provider of advanced laser sensing solutions primarily for the stealth airborne market, acquired in 2022.
Trident’s expertise aligns seamlessly with LightRidge’s portfolio, known for its highly reliable, resilient, and open-architecture space electronics. Trident specializes in multi-function radio-frequency processors, software-defined radios, on-board processors, and data storage solutions designed for demanding U.S. national security space missions. The company has also established itself as a trusted partner for innovative and affordable C4ISR solutions that address mission-critical needs across various domains such as air, land, and sea.
The integration of Trident into LightRidge will not only expand the engineering and science talent base but also boost production capacity. As part of LightRidge, Trident will be able to offer an expanded range of high-performance sensing and computing solutions in small form factors, including size, weight, and power packages. These mission-critical systems find applications in multi-domain defense and commercial sectors, including space domain awareness, laser communications, and the survivability of stealth aircraft.
Bill Gattle, CEO of LightRidge, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, “This transaction brings together two highly complementary, mission-focused businesses with proven track records of delivering uniquely capable, small form factor sensing, processing, and decision automation solutions across a breadth of challenging missions.” Gattle further emphasized the significance of Trident’s reputation as a leader in space computing and C4ISR solutions, trusted by both the U.S. Department of Defense and international customers. The collaboration aims to strengthen national security space capabilities, enable high-volume production under demanding schedules, and continue to provide cutting-edge technology solutions to customers.
Michael Kramer, a Partner at ATL and Chairman of LightRidge, highlighted the importance of disruptive technologies in addressing the pressing challenges faced by the national security community. He emphasized LightRidge’s commitment to being a trusted partner in the national security space and intelligence solutions sector, with Trident playing a vital role in expanding the company’s capabilities.
The acquisition was met with excitement from Trident Systems as well. John Broglio, Trident’s President, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, remarking, “Today’s announcement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire Trident team and marks the beginning of an exciting next chapter of growth for our company.” Broglio highlighted the shared culture of innovation and the commitment to providing best-in-class performance in mission-critical environments at affordable costs.
G Squared Capital acted as the financial advisor to Trident, while Holland & Knight served as their legal counsel. Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher served as legal counsel, and Quilty Space and Houlihan Lokey acted as financial advisors to LightRidge and ATL Partners.
With this acquisition, LightRidge Solutions positions itself as a leading provider of advanced technology solutions to meet the evolving needs of the national security community, ensuring the highest standards of performance, reliability, and affordability in space electronics and C4ISR solutions.
