Leonardo Strengthens Cyber-Security Hold with SSH Communications Acquisition
Deal News | Jul 02, 2025 | Finance Community IT - 1 Corporate M&A
Leonardo, an Italian industrial group, has acquired a 24.55% stake in SSH Communications Security Corporation, a Finnish cyber-security company. This acquisition, facilitated by Deloitte Financial Advisory, aligns with Leonardo's strategic plan and reinforces its position in the European Trusted Cyber Security sector. The deal includes a partnership, granting Leonardo exclusive global rights, except in Scandinavia, to integrate SSH's solutions into its Zero Trust offerings. This initiative aims to establish a European 'zero trust' ecosystem where the principle 'never trust, always verify' is effectively applied. The investment and partnership are subject to approval by SSH shareholders and compliance with Finnish regulations regarding foreign investments in defense-related sectors.
Sectors
- Cyber-Security
- Financial Advisory
- Defense
Geography
- Italy – Leonardo, an Italian company, is the acquiring entity in the transaction.
- Finland – SSH Communications, the target company, is based in Finland, highlighting the geographical focus of the acquisition.
- Europe – The acquisition aims to bolster Leonardo's cyber-security presence across Europe, emphasizing its continental strategy.
Industry
- Cyber-Security – The article discusses Leonardo's acquisition in the cyber-security industry, specifically targeting SSH Communications to enhance its Trusted Cyber Security capabilities in Europe.
- Financial Advisory – Deloitte Financial Advisory played a significant role as a financial advisor in the transaction between Leonardo and SSH Communications.
- Defense – The investment involves regulations pertaining to foreign direct investments in Finnish companies operating in the defense sector, indicating the defense industry's relevance.
Financials
- 24.55% – The percentage of stake acquired by Leonardo in SSH Communications.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leonardo | Acquirer | Company | An Italian industrial group focusing on aerospace, defense, and security sectors. |
| SSH Communications Security Corporation | Target | Company | A Finnish company specializing in cyber-security solutions for various critical sectors. |
| Deloitte Financial Advisory | Financial Advisor | Company | Advised Leonardo in the acquisition process. |