Fred Bartelsmeyer and Jonathan Nesher discuss defense industry dealmaking with Law360

Fred Bartelsmeyer and Jonathan Nesher, partners in BCLP’s Corporate Transactions practice, recently spoke with Law360 about defense industry dealmaking, including the uptick in activity in this area and how it may broaden in 2026.

In the article, Jon and Fred discuss how the defense M&A market is being supported by a broadening base of buyers and sustained capital inflows, particularly from private equity and nontraditional investors targeting smaller assets across the supply chain.  

Fred said this shift reflects both diversification in the defense ecosystem and a broader pipeline of deal opportunities that exists beyond the orbit of traditional prime contractors as smaller entities benefit from new streams of government and private funding. He pointed to increased funding supporting startup formation and strategic acquisitions, including companies involved in drones, artificial intelligence and specialized components and materials.  

Jon noted increased U.S. defense spending commitments and the need to replenish munitions inventories following recent military activity are expected to sustain demand. He said the U.S. remains the primary driver of global defense investment, both directly and through allied spending and procurement, reinforcing long-term demand in the sector.

Read Jon and Fred’s full insights in the article.