Smiths Detection completes transition to CVC Capital Partners

Smiths Detection is looking to accelerate investment in innovation and technology following its move into CVC ownership, as the security screening specialist targets growth across aviation, borders, ports and urban security.

The company, which provides threat detection and screening systems used across airports and other critical security environments, said the transition would give the business greater focus and support its long-term growth plans.

Jerome de Chassey, CEO of Smiths Detection, said the move marked an important milestone for the company and would benefit its customers and wider stakeholders.

He said CVC’s backing would allow Smiths to invest further in innovation and technology, while strengthening its market-leading positions in key security markets.

For customers, the ownership change is being presented as a platform for continuity as well as expansion. Smiths Detection already supports organisations operating in highly regulated and security-sensitive environments, where reliability, service support and product development are central to long-term customer confidence.

Smiths Detection targets growth beyond aviation security

Smiths is already a major player in aviation security, where it holds a leading global position. However, CVC sees further opportunities for growth across the company’s other markets, including ports and borders, urban security and the circular economy.

Henrik Ehrnrooth, Senior Industrial Partner at CVC and Chairman of Smiths Detection, said the company plays an integral role in global threat detection, particularly through its position in aviation security.

He said CVC’s ambition is to support Smiths Detection in becoming the “indisputable leader” in helping keep people and countries secure.

The broader growth opportunity reflects rising demand for more advanced detection technologies across critical infrastructure, transport networks and border environments. As security threats evolve, operators are under pressure to deploy screening systems that are faster, more accurate and easier to integrate into existing operations.

Smiths has manufacturing facilities in France, Germany, Malaysia, the UK and the USA, with some of these sites also supporting research and development activity.