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Government Cybersecurity Acquisition: Parsons Buys Polaris Alpha

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Parsons Federal Group President Carey Smith
Parsons CEO Chuck Harrington

U.S. federal government contractor and global solutions provider Parsons has acquired Polaris Alpha from private equity firm Arlington Capital Partners. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Parsons is a "digitally enabled" solutions provider focused on the defense, security, and infrastructure markets. The company has more than 100 office locations worldwide, and does business in 25 countries. Polaris Alpha will become part of Parsons' Federal business unit, led by Carey Smith.

Parsons' cybersecurity business already leverages artificial intelligence and data analytics expertise. The Polaris Alpha deal delivers additional technologies and know-how in those areas, according to Parsons Chairman and CEO Chuck Harrington. For instance, Polaris Alpha's Cyber and Signals Intelligence business blends analytical tools and related capabilities to prepare government organizations "both defensively and offensively for the constant menace of cyberattacks," the company says.

Polaris Alpha: Extensive M&A Experience

Polaris Alpha has more than 1,300 employees, with nearly 90 percent maintaining security clearances. The company essentially is a rollup of:

  • EOIR, which offered smart sensing, video analytics, and electromagnetic warfare efforts;
  • ISS with data analytics, space command and control, and mission planning capabilities;
  • Proteus for cybersecurity services;
  • Intelesys for cyber mission support; and
  • additional tuck-ins Solidyn and 4D.

The company has major office locations in Colorado Springs, COColumbia, MDAberdeen, MD; and Fredericksburg, VA; with additional offices, research and development facilities in several other states and the United Kingdom, the company said.

Cybersecurity Mergers, Acquisitions

Mergers and acquisitions involving cybersecurity consulting firms and MSSPs appears strong.

Earlier this month Presidio confirmed the Red Sky Solutions buyout for $40.8 million. The deal bolstered Presidio's cross-platform cybersecurity expertise and midwestern land grab. Red Sky is based in Utah.

Joe Panettieri

Joe Panettieri is co-founder & editorial director of MSSP Alert and ChannelE2E, the two leading news & analysis sites for managed service providers in the cybersecurity market.