FLIR Systems has entered into an agreement to acquire Endeavor Robotic Holdings, a leading developer of battle-tested, tactical unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) in a US$385 million deal.

Endeavor, a subsidiary of Arlington Capital Partners, currently supplies global military, public safety and critical infrastructure markets.

Its highly-mobile and easy-to-operate ground robots use advanced sensing and actuation in providing explosive ordnance disposal, reconnaissance, inspection, and hazardous materials support for troops, police, and industrial users.

Along with the recent acquisition of Aeryon Labs, FLIR has significantly expanded its unmanned systems capabilities.

Based outside Boston and formerly known as iRobot Defence & Security, Endeavor has shipped more than 7,000 UGVs to customers in over 55 countries.

Their robots have been deployed in numerous applications, including by police and SWAT teams, by first responders, and at nuclear power and industrial plants.

FLIR advancing new strategy

Endeavor is one of the largest UGV providers to the US Department of Defence (DoD), and a key supplier of unmanned systems for the global military and law enforcement agencies.

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

Proven experience

Having the largest deployed fleet of tactical robotics systems in the world, Endeavor has over 30 years of proven experience in advanced rugged UGVs.

“Joining forces with FLIR Systems will allow Endeavor to take its life-saving technology to the next level, so we can better serve the warfighter, the police officer, and the first responder who use our robots on the frontlines every day,” said Sean Bielat, CEO of Endeavor.

“We’re excited to be part of a company that sees its strategic growth in unmanned systems and will invest in our products, platforms and people. It is a tremendous fit and we look forward to the mission ahead.”

The acquisition is expected to be completed in the first quarter of this year.

Endeavor will then be part of the FLIR Government and Defence Business Unit’s Unmanned Systems and Integrated Solutions division.

Founded in 1978, FLIR Systems is a leading maker of sensor systems to help save lives and improve productivity.