Chemring buys out research firm Roke

Defence firm buys consultancy for £55m from Siemens

Defence firm Chemring has bought engineering consultancy Roke Manor Research from Siemens for £55 million.

Hampshire-based Roke employs 400 engineers. It traditionally developed radar and wireless technologies and mobile communications but moved into the defence and security sectors, particularly counter-improvised explosive device technology.

Siemens said that that technology was no longer part of its core business.

Chemring is best known for developing pyrotechnics and explosives for the defence sector. It said the acquisition would “substantially augment” the firm’s capabilities in electronics, software and systems engineering.

David Smith, managing director of Roke, said: “Joining the Chemring Group will provide the independence and investment required to enable our continued growth.

“Our focus remains on leading innovation in communications, information systems and electronic sensor technology.”

The existing management team at Roke will remain in place following the acquisition.

Roke Manor Reseach was founded in 1956 and has a history of major innovations in radio  and communications technology.

It played a vital role in the development of GSM mobile phone technology.

More recently, engineers at Roke Manor have developed number plate recognition systems, and the Hawkeye ball-tracking system used to officiate in cricket and tennis.