Karman Space & Defense has reached an agreement to acquire Seemann Composites and Materials Sciences. Karman said Wednesday that the move is designed to scale its support for the U.S. Navy’s modernization efforts, targeting high-priority programs in submarine technology and unmanned naval systems.
The $220 million transaction is split between $210 million in cash and $10 million in Karman stock. Expected to close early in Karman’s fiscal year 2026, the deal will see both Seemann and MSC integrated as wholly owned subsidiaries.
What Capabilities Is Karman Buying Under the Seemann and MSC Acquisition Deal?
Karman said Seemann and MSC will bring “bow-to-stern” composite systems focused on three areas tied to naval programs: sonar, acoustic and signal mitigation, subsea and surface propulsion, and missile and amphibious strategic launch products.
The businesses also add specialized manufacturing and test capabilities — including advanced resin infusion, automated fiber placement, fabric weaving, fatigue testing and 3D printing — that Karman said align with its concept-to-production approach.
Why Does Karman See Maritime Defense as a Strategic Priority?
For Karman CEO Tony Koblinski, the acquisitions align with a multi-year strategy to enter the maritime defense market. Koblinski views the sector as a high-growth area, driven by the Pentagon’s focus on near-peer deterrence.
“The acquisitions of Seemann and MSC represent the natural expansion of the Karman platform into a compelling new market that is poised for decades of sustained growth,” said Koblinski.
Which Navy Programs Do Seemann and MSC Support?
Seemann and MSC’s capabilities are used across multiple programs of record, including Columbia, Virginia and Seawolf class submarines. The companies have about 240,000 square feet of manufacturing space and decades of experience producing proprietary composite and coating products. Seemann and MSC are operating from Mississippi and Pennsylvania, respectively.
How Will the Acquisition Affect Karman Financially and Operationally?
Karman said the transaction is expected to be immediately accretive in 2026 across key metrics. It added that key Seemann and MSC leaders are expected to remain in place post-close. Karman plans to discuss the deal and its updated fiscal year 2026 outlook during an investor call on Jan. 21.
How Does the Seemann and MSC Acquisition Fit Karman’s Recent M&A Pattern?
Karman framed Seemann and MSC as an addition to its advanced materials portfolio and cited its earlier acquisitions — including MG Resin and Metal Technology Inc. — as building blocks toward a broader strategy spanning propulsion and shielding applications across demanding operating environments.
The company has recently expanded its U.S. footprint with the opening of a new facility in Alabama.
