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Sentry Aerospares Acquires AirStart

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4 months ago

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AirStart’s Highly Complementary Customer Base and Regional Aircraft Focus Underscore Sentry’s “One-Stop Shop” Commitment to Its Global Airline and End-User Customer Base

WATFORD, England and TORONTO, July 7, 2026 /CNW/ — Sentry Aerospares (“Sentry” or the “Company”), a portfolio company of Acorn Capital Management (“Acorn”), today announced the acquisition of AirStart Inc. (“AirStart”), a leading independent stocking distributor of rotable aircraft components with a strong focus on regional platforms and a recognized leader in the Canadian market.

Founded by Robert Wills, who continues to lead the business with Anne Vinet, AirStart has established a reputation for exceptional customer service, deep product expertise, and long-standing relationships with airlines, maintenance, repair and overhaul providers, and aviation parts distributors, both domestically in Canada and across the globe. Similar to Sentry, AirStart serves its customers’ most critical parts needs with high-quality, tagged material on the shelf and ready to ship in support of aircraft on ground (“AOG”) situations.

With its proud Canadian heritage underpinning its DNA, AirStart’s integration into Sentry provides the Company with the opportunity to further enhance its service to the important Canadian market while also leveraging the resources and breadth of inventory across the combined companies. AirStart’s new, state-of-the-art facility adjacent to Toronto Pearson Airport is the perfect complement to Sentry’s existing global hubs in London, the New York metro area, and Dallas and will further enhance the 24/7 AOG service provided to the global airline and aviation market.

The acquisition strengthens Sentry’s position as a leading aviation aftermarket platform by expanding its inventory portfolio, broadening its customer relationships, and enhancing its capabilities within the regional aircraft market. The combination is expected to create significant commercial synergies through cross-selling opportunities, increased inventory availability, and a shared commitment to providing rapid, reliable solutions to customers worldwide.

“We are excited to welcome AirStart to the Sentry family,” said Adam Nemenyi and Tony DiSimone, Co-Executive Chairmen of Sentry Aerospares. “Rob and Anne have built an outstanding business with a well-earned reputation for customer service, market expertise, and operational excellence. We have long admired AirStart’s leadership position not only in Canada, but across the world, and its deep focus on the regional aircraft market. Together, we will be able to offer customers a broader inventory portfolio, enhanced service capabilities, and greater access to hard-to-find aircraft components.”

Boris Wolstenholme, Chief Executive Officer of Sentry Aerospares, added, “This transaction represents a highly complementary strategic fit for both organizations. AirStart’s customer relationships, inventory profile, and regional aircraft expertise align exceptionally well with Sentry’s global platform and commitment to unmatched 24/7 AOG support. We see meaningful opportunities to leverage the strengths of both companies, creating value for customers while accelerating growth across the combined business.”

The acquisition further advances Sentry’s strategy of building a differentiated aviation aftermarket platform through both organic growth and strategic acquisitions.

Greg Agnew, Partner at Acorn Capital Management, said, “The acquisition of AirStart further enhances Sentry’s leadership position in the aviation aftermarket and strengthens its AOG rotables focus, with expanded capabilities, broader market coverage, and significant commercial synergy opportunities. We are excited to continue supporting the Sentry team as they execute on their growth strategy and further strengthen their position in the global aviation aftermarket.”

Rob Wills, Founder of AirStart, commented, “Joining forces with Sentry marks an exciting new chapter for AirStart. From our earliest discussions, it was clear that the two organizations share a common customer-centric culture and a commitment to excellence. We are particularly excited about the opportunities this partnership creates for our customers, employees, and suppliers. By combining our strengths, we will be able to deliver greater inventory availability, expanded market reach, and enhanced support across the aviation aftermarket.”

Proskauer Rose LLP served as primary legal counsel to Acorn and Sentry in connection with the transaction. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Deloitte Corporate Finance Inc. acted as exclusive financial advisor to AirStart’s vendors. McMillan LLP acted as legal counsel to Airstart’s vendors.

About Sentry Aerospares
Sentry Aerospares is an award-winning company specializing in providing rotable spares support to airlines worldwide. We consistently provide superior customer support, a comprehensive stockholding of the most demanded and hard-to-find parts, and a responsive 24/7 AOG (Aircraft on Ground) service. Our focus on quality permeates every facet of our organization. For more information, please visit www.sentry.aero.

About AirStart
AirStart is a leading global aviation aftermarket specialist focused on the exchange and leasing of rotable parts for commercial aircraft. With expertise across ATR, De Havilland Q400, MHI CRJ and Embraer platforms, AirStart offers tailored solutions to customers around the globe. Our core values drive us: respect, fostering inclusivity and trust while building enduring relationships; teamwork, where collective expertise drives our success; communication, enabling seamless interactions and clarity internally and externally; and innovation, constantly seeking pioneering solutions to exceed standards. Recognized for excellence with numerous awards, including Canada’s Best Managed Companies by Deloitte, AirStart is AS9120B certified and an ASA member. For more information about AirStart, please visit www.airstart.com.

About Acorn Capital Management
Acorn Capital Management is a middle-market private fund manager focused exclusively on aerospace, defense, space, and intelligence. Acorn invests solely in companies that strive to enhance global mobility and protect national interests. Acorn has a formidable reputation in the industry and is recognized for its deep understanding of the aerospace and defense markets. With operational expertise and its ability to lead and manage investments through variable economic and industry cycles, Acorn works in tandem with management to build its portfolio companies into significant market leaders. For more information, please visit www.acorncapitalmanagement.com.

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ST Engineering iDirect and MBSat Partner to Build Next-Generation Sovereign Connectivity Services Across Oman and the Middle East

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4 hours ago

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October 25, 2026

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Intuition ground system selected to support MBSat’s planned 2027 service launch, enabling accelerated deployment, dynamic resource management and scalable service growth

HERNDON, Va., Oct. 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ST Engineering iDirect today announced a strategic partnership with Mohammed Al Barwani Satellite Company (MBSat), part of Mohammed Al Barwani Group, to provide the ground system technology foundation for MBSat’s next-generation satellite gateway and network operations across Oman and the wider Middle East region. Intuition will provide a flexible, software-defined foundation to support sovereign connectivity services, enabling efficient service deployment, dynamic resource management and scalable network operations.

Intuition will deliver a turnkey ground segment solution that accelerates deployment, simplifies operations and gives MBSat the flexibility to scale services as demand grows. The software-defined platform enables dynamic resource management, service automation and seamless integration with existing and future operational systems. The solution also includes Ka-band gateway infrastructure, service provisioning and management capabilities, open API integration frameworks, training and full-lifecycle support. Together, these capabilities will help MBSat launch and operate services efficiently while adapting to evolving market requirements.

The network will leverage capacity from MB Sat-1, a sovereign MicroGEO satellite, with planned service launch in 2027, to support flexible, scalable connectivity services across the region.

The partnership reflects growing investment in sovereign communications infrastructure across the Middle East as operators seek greater control over service delivery, network expansion and long-term technology evolution.

“This partnership represents an important milestone in our efforts to build an advanced satellite communications platform in Oman and the region,” said Ammar Al Rawahi, General Manager, MBSat. “Through our collaboration with ST Engineering iDirect, we are establishing the technical infrastructure required to launch services efficiently, respond to evolving customer needs and expand into new markets, supporting the sustainable long-term growth of our business.”

“We are providing MBSat with a flexible, software-defined ground platform that integrates with its existing operational environment,” said Sridhar Kuppanna, Chief Executive Officer, ST Engineering iDirect. “This enables more efficient service deployment and operations today, with the flexibility to scale, introduce new capabilities and evolve as requirements change.”

About ST Engineering iDirect

ST Engineering iDirect, a subsidiary of ST Engineering, is a global leader in satellite communications, providing technology and solutions that enable its customers to expand their business, differentiate their services and optimize their networks. Through its portfolio of ground infrastructure, intelligent networking and advanced satellite communications solutions, the company supports operators, service providers, governments and enterprises worldwide.

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SOURCE ST Engineering iDirect

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ST Engineering iDirect and MBSat Partner to Build Next-Generation Sovereign Connectivity Services Across Oman and the Middle East

Published

4 hours ago

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October 25, 2026

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Intuition ground system selected to support MBSat’s planned 2027 service launch, enabling accelerated deployment, dynamic resource management and scalable service growth

HERNDON, Va., Oct. 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ST Engineering iDirect today announced a strategic partnership with Mohammed Al Barwani Satellite Company (MBSat), part of Mohammed Al Barwani Group, to provide the ground system technology foundation for MBSat’s next-generation satellite gateway and network operations across Oman and the wider Middle East region. Intuition will provide a flexible, software-defined foundation to support sovereign connectivity services, enabling efficient service deployment, dynamic resource management and scalable network operations.

Intuition will deliver a turnkey ground segment solution that accelerates deployment, simplifies operations and gives MBSat the flexibility to scale services as demand grows. The software-defined platform enables dynamic resource management, service automation and seamless integration with existing and future operational systems. The solution also includes Ka-band gateway infrastructure, service provisioning and management capabilities, open API integration frameworks, training and full-lifecycle support. Together, these capabilities will help MBSat launch and operate services efficiently while adapting to evolving market requirements.

The network will leverage capacity from MB Sat-1, a sovereign MicroGEO satellite, with planned service launch in 2027, to support flexible, scalable connectivity services across the region.

The partnership reflects growing investment in sovereign communications infrastructure across the Middle East as operators seek greater control over service delivery, network expansion and long-term technology evolution.

“This partnership represents an important milestone in our efforts to build an advanced satellite communications platform in Oman and the region,” said Ammar Al Rawahi, General Manager, MBSat. “Through our collaboration with ST Engineering iDirect, we are establishing the technical infrastructure required to launch services efficiently, respond to evolving customer needs and expand into new markets, supporting the sustainable long-term growth of our business.”

“We are providing MBSat with a flexible, software-defined ground platform that integrates with its existing operational environment,” said Sridhar Kuppanna, Chief Executive Officer, ST Engineering iDirect. “This enables more efficient service deployment and operations today, with the flexibility to scale, introduce new capabilities and evolve as requirements change.”

About ST Engineering iDirect

ST Engineering iDirect, a subsidiary of ST Engineering, is a global leader in satellite communications, providing technology and solutions that enable its customers to expand their business, differentiate their services and optimize their networks. Through its portfolio of ground infrastructure, intelligent networking and advanced satellite communications solutions, the company supports operators, service providers, governments and enterprises worldwide.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/st-engineering-idirect-and-mbsat-partner-to-build-next-generation-sovereign-connectivity-services-across-oman-and-the-middle-east-302918467.html

SOURCE ST Engineering iDirect

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Global Security & Technology Summit Unveils Month-Long Program of Activities Ahead of December Event

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11 hours ago

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October 24, 2026

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RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Oct. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Organizing Committee of the Global Security & Technology Summit (GSTS) held an introductory session today at the Ministry of Interior’s headquarters in Riyadh, bringing together representatives from the government, private, and nonprofit sectors to introduce the program of activities leading up to the summit. The upcoming summit will be held in Riyadh under the patronage of HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, under the supervision of HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Minister of Interior, and organized by the Ministry of Interior in cooperation with Tuwaiq Academy.

During the session, the Organizing Committee presented the comprehensive GSTS program, comprising three key components: GSTS Month, running from November 1 to 30, 2026; the Global Security & Innovation Fair (SAIF), taking place from November 24 to 26, 2026; and the main Summit, scheduled for December 18 to 20, 2026, in Riyadh. Together, these events form an integrated program designed to advance security and technology innovation, strengthen national capabilities, and foster international cooperation.

GSTS Month will feature working groups, boot camps, training programs, knowledge-sharing sessions, and technical workshops across Saudi Arabia’s 13 administrative regions, delivered both in person and remotely in collaboration with specialized entities. The month-long program aims to develop national capabilities, identify emerging talent, enrich knowledge-sharing opportunities, and equip professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to develop innovative solutions to future security and technology challenges.

The main Summit will bring together global leaders, decision-makers, experts, and innovators to explore the future of security and technology, promote the integration of advanced technologies within the security sector, strengthen national capabilities, support innovation, and foster international cooperation, further positioning the Kingdom as a global hub for security and technology.

Showcasing the latest technological breakthroughs and security solutions, the summit will bring together government entities, private sector organizations, academic institutions, and research centers to facilitate knowledge exchange and collaboration across key fields, including cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), smart security solutions, emerging technologies, and crisis management. The program will also feature main sessions, specialized discussions, and interactive exhibitions. Registration is available at gsts.sa.

Advisor to HRH the Minister of Interior and Chairman of the GSTS Organizing Committee, Ahmed Altowayan, stated that the summit builds on Saudi Arabia’s efforts to establish an advanced security and technology ecosystem focused on knowledge and innovation, keeping pace with rapid developments and future challenges.

Mr. Altowayan noted that the summit is a global platform for strengthening cooperation and exchanging expertise, anticipating future developments in security and technology, and developing strategic partnerships and innovative solutions that enhance the efficiency and readiness of security systems.

Vice Chairman of the GSTS Organizing Committee, Eng. Abdulaziz Alhammadi, said that the summit will offer a range of integrated programs and activities focused on enhancing national skills, encouraging innovation, and supporting international cooperation.

He added that GSTS Month will help build national capabilities, discover talent, and develop skills, with SAIF providing a platform for innovators and researchers from around the world to showcase leading technological solutions, while the main Summit will bring together leaders and experts to discuss the future of security and technology and explore new strategic partnership opportunities.

SAIF will take place at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center, bringing together innovators, researchers, technology talents, and industry experts from around the world to showcase promising innovations and projects across 14 fields of technology and innovation. The fair will provide opportunities to engage with project owners, including students, graduates, and entrepreneurs, and explore the different stages of innovation development through interactive zones, panel discussions on emerging security and innovation trends, and knowledge-sharing workshops led by specialists. Visitor registration is open to participants from within and outside the Kingdom through saifair.sa.

The introductory session also featured contributions from representatives of government, private, and nonprofit sector entities, alongside members of the media. Discussions focused on developing national capabilities in security and technology, strengthening students’ technical expertise, translating scientific research into practical solutions, and supporting Saudi companies in developing security and technology solutions and advancing digital transformation.

Organized by the Ministry of Interior in cooperation with Tuwaiq Academy, GSTS is produced by Tahaluf, with the Ministry of Education serving as Strategic Scientific Partner, Tahakom as Founding Partner, and Elm as Principal Partner.

Registration for participants from within and outside the Kingdom is available at gsts.sa.

Click here to view the media kit. 

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