Chemring Group PLC has reached agreement with Siemens to acquire Roke Manor Research Ltd., a centre for advanced technology research and development based in Hampshire, UK.

Working in collaboration with government agencies, consortia and industrial partners, Roke has established a world class reputation for developing and delivering innovative advanced sensors, signal processing, communications and network solutions in the defence, security and industrial markets.

Commenting on the announcement, David Smith, Managing Director of Roke, said, "Joining the Chemring Group will provide the independence and investment required to enable our continued growth. Our focus remains on leading innovation in communications, information systems and electronic sensor technology."

Chemring is a global defence business listed that specializes in the manufacture of energetic material products, providing solutions for highly demanding requirements in the countermeasures, counter-IED, pyrotechnics and munitions markets.

The company’s Chief Executive, David Price, commented, "The acquisition of Roke will substantially enhance our existing technologies in a number of our key market sectors and will provide a growing number of products and technologies that will allow the Group to enter adjacent attractive, high growth markets. I am delighted that all of the existing highly successful Roke management team will remain with the company."