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Leidos to acquire Entrust Solutions Group in a sweeping $2.4 billion all-cash transaction, the engineering and technology firm announced Monday, a move executives say will dramatically scale its energy infrastructure ambitions as demand surges nationwide.

The acquisition of the private equity-backed consulting and engineering platform, owned by Kohlberg, is expected to effectively double Leidos’ existing $600 million energy infrastructure engineering business, turning a steady engine into a high-powered turbine.

A Strategic Bet on Power and Resilience

Doubling down on energy engineering

Entrust Solutions Group provides consulting and engineering services to utility and infrastructure markets, with deep expertise spanning generation, transmission and distribution across both gas and electric utilities. The company operates across the full power delivery spectrum, serving utilities grappling with aging systems, climate pressures and rising demand.

Leidos CEO Tom Bell called the deal a decisive leap forward.

“Entrust’s engineering capabilities and customer base fit seamlessly with ours,” Bell said, pointing to Entrust’s consistent growth and strong profitability. He added that the transaction aligns with a national priority to expand and harden America’s energy infrastructure against extreme weather and system strain.

Kohlberg’s Exit After Years of Expansion

From acquisition to scale-up

Kohlberg first acquired Entrust in 2019 and completed a minority recapitalization in 2023. Since then, the firm says Entrust has widened its geographic footprint, expanded service offerings and sharpened its market identity.

“Entrust is exceptionally well positioned to meet rising demand for power infrastructure and grid development,” said Kohlberg partner Gus Harwood, reflecting on the firm’s investment journey.

A Larger Platform, Broader Reach

5,500 energy professionals under one roof

By bringing Entrust into the fold, Leidos will expand its utility client base and enhance its ability to innovate across a broader and more diverse set of customers. Entrust CEO Adam Biggam said the merger creates a formidable end-to-end infrastructure platform.

“Our combined 5,500-plus energy professionals will have the scale, technology and reach to tackle the toughest challenges facing power and utility markets today,” Biggam said.

Deal Structure and Timeline

Leidos plans to finance the acquisition through a mix of debt, cash on hand and commercial paper. The transaction is expected to close by the second quarter of 2026, pending customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.

Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP is advising Leidos, with partners William Chudd and Lee Parnes leading the team. Ropes & Gray LLP is advising Kohlberg and Entrust, though full counsel details were not immediately available.