Sun European sells Wescom Signal & Rescue

Sun European Partners, LLP has agreed the sale of Wescom Signal & Rescue, a global leader in marine pyrotechnics and defence products, to Albion River, a private direct investment firm focused on technical defence product businesses and services.  

Wescom, which has DAME-award winning products within its portfolio, was originally a corporate carve-out of the Drew Marine group, constituting approximately 20 per cent of the conglomerate prior to acquisition. Private investment advisory firm, Sun European, acquired the Wescom business in February 2020.

Alexander Wyndham, managing director at Sun European Partners, says: “Through strategic investments, operational enhancements, and pre-identified M&A strategy, we have positioned Wescom for long-term success in both the marine and defence markets. We are proud of what has been accomplished in partnership with the Wescom team and are confident the business is well-positioned for continued growth under its new ownership.

“Wescom’s transformation is a testament to our buy and build strategy and underscores Sun European’s extensive experience in driving value creation through robust operational strategies.”

In 2022, Wescom acquired UK-based personal locator beacon manufacturer Marine Rescue Technologies (MRT) and in 2025 acquired Cardiff-based BCB International, a supplier of safety equipment in the defence, outdoor and marine sectors.

Ross Wilkinson, CEO at Wescom, says: “Our partnership with the Sun European team has been a great success, transforming Wescom into the global leader it is today. Thanks to their support, Wescom is now exceptionally well-positioned to continue driving innovation and growth in both the defence and marine markets under our new partnership.  We are excited to partner with the team at Albion River for the next phase of our growth.”