Renk, a Bavaria-based German defence group, has agreed to acquire UK gearmaker David Brown Defence for approximately $200 million, merging two companies that once fought on opposite sides during World War Two. The deal brings together Renk, founded in 1873, and David Brown, established in 1860, creating a significant player in military transmission systems.

David Brown supplied gears for the iconic Spitfire fighter aircraft that battled the Luftwaffe in the Battle of Britain, while Renk produced gearboxes for Germany's Wehrmacht tanks. Both companies now specialize in high-precision transmissions for armored vehicles and naval frigates, with David Brown supporting the British Army's Challenger tank and Renk manufacturing gearboxes for the Leopard 2.

Renk CEO Alexander Sagel called the acquisition part of the company's strategy to capitalize on rising European defence spending, noting particular interest in David Brown's naval division with long-term contracts across the UK, Canada and Australia. The Huddersfield facility employs roughly 500 workers and will integrate into Renk's operations as demand surges.

The purchase follows a broader trend of European defence companies targeting UK assets, including Belgian firm FN Browning Group's recent acquisition of sniper specialist Accuracy International. This consolidation reflects growing cross-border collaboration in the sector despite historical tensions.