Alexandria-based Systems Planning & Analysis has acquired Group W, a Vienna defense analytics company, in a deal that combines two prominent firms specializing in modeling and simulation for the Department of Defense.
The acquisition, announced Thursday, brings together companies with complementary expertise in defense wargaming and analytical tools used across military planning and operations. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
SPA, a global provider of data-driven analytical insights for national security programs, said the combination creates what it calls the most comprehensive defense modeling and simulation company serving allied national security organizations.
“SPA has a long history of working with Group W, and today we unite the leading providers and users of widely-used DoD modeling and simulation tools across the system, mission, and campaign levels,” SPA CEO Rich Sawchak said in a statement.
Group W, which has more than 20 years of experience in defense analytics, uses mathematical techniques and simulation tools to provide insights to senior Defense Department officials. The company’s employees specialize in simulating modern warfare scenarios through digital wargaming capabilities.
“We have an exceptional reputation in the art and science of simulating modern warfare derived from our enduring innovation and collaborative expertise,” Group W CEO Trase Travers said. “Combining our talents and complementary capabilities creates new opportunities for both our employees and clients.”
The acquisition comes as SPA continues an aggressive expansion in the region. The company announced in September that it would create 1,200 new jobs over five years as part of a $46.9 million investment across Northern Virginia, including the purchase and renovation of its 239,000-square-foot headquarters at 2001 N. Beauregard Street.
That expansion included commitments to partner with Alexandria City Public Schools and local small businesses. Earlier this month, Mayor Alyia Gaskins highlighted SPA’s community engagement, noting the company had already begun STEM programming at local elementary schools.
SPA currently employs nearly 3,000 people globally and has operated from Alexandria since its founding in 1972.
Arlington Capital Partners, which has been an investor in SPA, participated in the Group W transaction. Managing Partner David Wodlinger said the acquisition enhances SPA’s position with defense and intelligence clients.
“Group W brings cutting-edge capabilities, approaches, and expertise that will enhance SPA’s position as the trusted partner of choice for defense, intelligence, and homeland security clients,” Wodlinger said.
Sheppard Mullin and Morrison Foerster served as legal counsel to SPA, while Stout provided financial advisory services, and Holland & Knight served as legal counsel to Group W.
Terms of the transaction were not announced.
