J.F. Lehman & Company Enhances Aerospace Sector with Forged Solutions Group Acquisition
J.F. Lehman & Company Expands Aerospace Expertise with New Acquisition
New York, March 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- J.F. Lehman & Company (JFLCO), a prominent player in alternative asset management, has announced the acquisition of Forged Solutions Group, Inc. (FSG), a significant milestone in enhancing its focus within the aerospace, defense, and maritime sectors. Leading investment affiliates, including JFL Equity Investors VI, L.P., played a pivotal role in this transaction, marking a strategic move for JFLCO.
Founded in 1836, Forged Solutions Group has positioned itself as a top-tier supplier of high-specification forgings, particularly in the aerospace, defense, and space markets. The company specializes in producing essential components for rotating aeroengines, characterized by their flight-critical nature. With operations headquartered in Sheffield, U.K., FSG operates across seven manufacturing locations throughout the U.K. and the U.S., employing approximately 840 skilled workers. The firm boasts extensive capabilities in rolled rings, closed die, extrusion, and open die forging, utilizing a variety of alloys including nickel, titanium, steel, and aluminum.
Alex Harman, Managing Partner at JFLCO, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, "FSG operates in one of the most technically demanding and capacity-constrained segments of the supply chain. Its diversified offerings and significant operational scale uniquely position it to cater to growing long-term demand in the aerospace and defense sectors. We are excited to collaborate with FSG's management to support their strategic growth initiatives."
Ben Hatcher, JFLCO's Managing Director, emphasized the critical nature of FSG's capabilities within the aerospace and defense industry, declaring, "The expansive forging capabilities and diverse product range of FSG provide a vital solution to the production needs of the broader aerospace sector. We are keen to enhance FSG's unmatched technical expertise and operational capacity to increase throughput for both current and next-generation aeroengine and defense platforms."
Comments from Olivier Jarrault, CEO of FSG, highlight the opportunity for growth presented by this partnership. "The deep industry knowledge and operational expertise that JFLCO brings make them an ideal partner for the next phase of FSG's growth. We are eager to leverage this partnership to fortify our position as a trusted supplier of critical forgings for major global aerospace and defense programs."
Financing for this significant transaction was spearheaded by HPS Investment Partners through its Direct Lending platform, with Audax Private Debt acting as joint lead arranger. JFLCO received advisory services from Evercore, while legal counsel was provided by Jones Day. For FSG, Goldman Sachs and Perella Weinberg served as financial advisors, with Sheppard Mullin providing legal counsel.
Founded in 1992, J.F. Lehman & Company is dedicated to investment in the aerospace, defense, government, maritime, environmental, and infrastructure industries, boasting over $8 billion in assets under management across its private equity and credit strategies. Its operational offices located in New York and Washington, D.C., reflect its strong market presence and commitment to these crucial sectors.
In summary, this acquisition signifies J.F. Lehman & Company's intention to fortify its position within the aerospace and defense landscape while enhancing the capabilities and strategic growth potential of Forged Solutions Group, a partnership that is expected to yield significant benefits for both entities in the years ahead.