The transaction was first announced in December 2025, when Smiths Group plc entered into an agreement for the proposed sale of Smiths Detection to funds advised by CVC Capital Partners. At that time the proposed transaction valued Smiths Detection at an enterprise value of £2.0bn.

Jerome de Chassey, CEO at Smiths Detection, said: “Our transition to CVC ownership is a milestone that will benefit all our stakeholders, especially our customers who trust our products and service. Now, with CVC’s support, we will have greater focus and the ability to invest further in innovation and technology, and strengthen our market-leading positions to support long-term growth.”

Henrik Ehrnrooth, Senior Industrial Partner at CVC and Chairman at Smiths Detection, commented: “Smiths Detection plays an integral role in global threat detection, which is apparent in its #1 position in aviation security. However there is incredible scope for growth across its other segments, including ports & borders, urban security and the circular economy. Our vision is for Smiths Detection to become the indisputable leader in keeping people and countries secure.”