FLIR Systems announces plans to acquire Endeavor Robotics

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Just a few weeks after announcing its acquisition of Aeryon Labs Inc., FLIR Systems Inc. has announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Endeavor Robotic Holdings Inc. (Endeavor Robotics) from Arlington Capital Partners for $385 million in cash.

Known for developing UGVs for the global military, public safety, and critical infrastructure markets, Endeavor’s robots use advanced sensing and actuation to provide explosive ordnance disposal, reconnaissance, inspection, and hazardous materials support for troops, police, and industrial users at stand-off range.

“The acquisition of Endeavor Robotics, coupled with previous acquisitions of Aeryon Labs and Prox Dynamics, has positioned FLIR as a leading unmanned solutions provider and advances the strategy we detailed at our Investor Day last year,” says Jim Cannon, president and CEO of FLIR Systems.

“This acquisition aligns with our evolution from sensors to intelligent sensing and ultimately solutions that save lives and livelihoods.”

​Previously known as iRobot Defense & Security, Endeavor has shipped more than 7,000 UGVs to customers in over 55 countries. Endeavor’s robots have been used by various entities— including police and SWAT teams, as well as first responders—and at various locations—including at nuclear power and industrial plants.

Also known for being one of the largest UGV providers to the United States Department of Defense (DoD), Boston-based Endeavor is considered a key supplier of unmanned systems for the “accelerating modernization” of global military and law enforcement operational assets.

Additionally, Endeavor was also recently awarded the U.S. Army’s Man Transportable Robotic System Increment II (MTRS Inc II) contract, and is a major participant in several programmatic opportunities with the U.S. DoD and its ally militaries across the world.

“Endeavor’s momentum with the U.S. DoD and other global defense and police forces provides us significant opportunity to participate in long-term franchise programs and will help us create growth for the company,” Cannon adds.

Endeavor’s UGVs range in weight and size, from the five-pound throwable FirstLook reconnaissance robot to the 500-pound Kobra heavy-lift robot. All models are controllable under one common command and control system.

Endeavor’s modular approach to design allows for different payloads and sensor systems for the needs of each customer, including imaging and reconnaissance, vehicle and room inspection and route clearance, to name a few.

FLIR’s acquisition of Endeavor is expected to close in the first quarter of this year. Once the acquisition is closed, Endeavor will be part of the FLIR Government and Defense Business Unit’s Unmanned Systems and Integrated Solutions division.