Leonardo S.p.A.
Guiding a major defense acquisition through Washington’s national security scrutiny
Situation Summary
Situation Summary
When Finmeccanica moved to acquire DRS Technologies, Inc. – a leading U.S. supplier of integrated defense electronics products, services, and support – the Italian defense contractor engaged Qorvis to manage communications surrounding issues related to the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS).
As the acquirer of an American defense contractor, Finmeccanica faced significant political and regulatory sensitivities. The acquisition came in the wake of the DP World controversy, which sparked intense national debate in Washington over foreign ownership of U.S. strategic infrastructure and raised concerns about national security reviews of foreign investment.
Finmeccanica was preparing to undertake what would become the largest acquisition of an American defense firm by a foreign company, making careful engagement with policymakers, media, and stakeholders essential.
Qorvis Solution
Qorvis Solution
Qorvis advised Finmeccanica on communications strategy throughout the transaction, helping the company navigate complex national security and policy sensitivities surrounding the CFIUS review process. The team developed messaging and briefing materials to ensure decision-makers had clear, concise language addressing sensitive issues that could arise during the review process.
Qorvis also worked closely with Finmeccanica and its advisors to anticipate communications challenges related to classified, sensitive, or export-controlled information that could arise during the acquisition.
Through careful strategy and proactive engagement, Qorvis helped guide the transaction through Washington’s heightened national security scrutiny without negative media fallout, allowing the company to complete the deal on schedule and establish a stronger presence in the U.S. defense market.
Finmeccanica successfully completed its acquisition of DRS Technologies, one of the largest foreign acquisitions of a U.S. defense contractor.