CACI to Acquire Space Technology Firm ARKA in $2.6 Billion All-Cash Deal
December 22, 2025 | By Sandra Erwin – SpaceNews
WASHINGTON — CACI International, a leading defense and intelligence contractor based in Reston, Virginia, announced on December 22, 2025, that it is set to acquire ARKA Group, a space technology company, in an all-cash transaction valued at approximately $2.6 billion. This strategic acquisition is poised to significantly enhance CACI’s capabilities in space-based sensing and intelligence systems.
Expanding Capabilities in Space-Based Intelligence
CACI is purchasing ARKA from Blackstone Tactical Opportunities, the private investment division of Blackstone, which has owned ARKA since 2019 through a series of portfolio acquisitions. With this deal, CACI aims to deepen its footprint in the national security space sector, further aligning with its long-term strategic priorities.
“ARKA supports national security missions through its space-based sensor portfolio and ground-based software processing, accelerating the delivery of actionable intelligence to the warfighter,” CACI stated. This acquisition will allow CACI to offer more comprehensive solutions by integrating ARKA’s sensor data processing and optical technologies with its existing defense services and products.
About ARKA Group
ARKA Group, headquartered in Danbury, Connecticut, specializes in developing advanced software to process and analyze data retrieved from space-based sensors, including radar and remote sensing systems. Their technology portfolio features analytics and data fusion tools designed to transform raw sensor data into valuable intelligence products for end users.
In addition to software, ARKA produces space-qualified optical systems and payloads such as high-precision telescopes and electro-optical sensors utilized on satellites for surveillance and intelligence collection missions. The company focuses on small satellite payloads and subsystems tailored primarily for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) applications. ARKA has recently expanded its manufacturing facilities to enhance its capacity for payload fabrication and optical coating.
CACI’s Strategic Vision and Market Position
John Mengucci, CACI’s president and chief executive officer, emphasized the significance of the acquisition: “The acquisition of ARKA represents a significant step forward in our space strategy.” He explained that the acquisition positions CACI to capture substantial future opportunities within the intelligence community, U.S. Space Force, and other Department of Defense customers.
CACI’s existing space-related portfolio includes hardware and software offerings as well as professional and technical services. Notably, the company produces optical communications terminals that enable high-speed data links between satellites for the U.S. government. Furthermore, in 2024, CACI secured a 10-year contract valued at up to $450 million to support the Joint Navigation Warfare Center, which operates under U.S. Space Command and is tasked with protecting satellite-based positioning, navigation, and timing systems.
Transaction Timeline
CACI expects to complete the acquisition in the third quarter of its fiscal year 2026, pending customary regulatory approvals and other closing conditions.
This acquisition reflects a broader trend of increased investment and integration between defense contractors and cutting-edge space technology providers, underscoring the growing importance of space assets in national security and intelligence operations.
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