Gilat's $157.5 Million Comtech Deal Sends CMTL Up 9.5%

Gilat Satellite Networks has agreed to acquire the majority of Comtech Telecommunications' Satellite & Space Communications segment for $157.5 million in cash, marking a potentially important scale-building move in satellite infrastructure and defense communications. The deal will be funded from Gilat's existing cash reserves, after the company ended Q1 2026 with about $170 million in net cash. The acquired business provides satellite ground infrastructure for GEO, MEO and LEO constellations, Troposcatter beyond-line-of-sight communications systems, and engineering support for satellites, launch vehicles and manned space applications. Its customers include U.S. defense agencies, allied defense agencies, commercial satellite operators and energy companies.For Comtech's fiscal year 2025, which ended July 31, 2025, the acquired business generated adjusted revenue of $187.8 million and adjusted EBITDA of $14.9 million. For the trailing twelve months ended January 31, 2026, Gilat cited adjusted revenue of $195.2 million and adjusted EBITDA of $16.8 million. The acquisition could significantly expand Gilat's projected scale, creating a combined company with projected annual revenue above $700 million and projected annual adjusted EBITDA of $80 million. Management also stated that the transaction would more than double Gilat Defense revenues.Gilat said the deal could unlock synergies from cross-selling, operational efficiencies and scale benefits, while expanding its technology portfolio into complementary RF technologies, space electronics and Troposcatter BLOS communications. The acquisition also increases Gilat's U.S. presence, engineering capabilities and manufacturing footprint, which could strengthen support for U.S. and allied defense customers and mission-critical programs. The transaction, which excludes mainly Comtech's Cyber and Services business line, has been unanimously approved by both boards and is expected to close by the end of 2026. CMTL rose 9.5%, while GILT gained 2.5%.