Hughes Expands Aviation, Space and Defense Expertise with Strategic Acquisition of Anderson Connectivity

Rhea-AI Summary

Hughes (Nasdaq: SATS) announced the acquisition of Anderson Connectivity on October 22, 2025, adding aerospace design, engineering, and manufacturing capabilities based in Melbourne, Florida.

The deal brings Anderson's Melbourne facility (holding FAA Part 145 certification and on track for Part 21), product solutions, and engineering talent to Hughes, and adds founder Brian Anderson as Vice President, Aviation Technology & Innovation Officer. Hughes said the acquisition positions the company for accelerated growth in global aviation, space, and defense and commits to substantial regional investments.

Positive

• Adds Melbourne facility with FAA Part 145 certification
• Founder Brian Anderson joins as VP, Aviation Technology & Innovation Officer
• Expands engineering and manufacturing capabilities for aviation, space, and defense
• Positions Hughes for accelerated growth in global aviation, space, and defense
• Commitment to substantial investments in the Melbourne region

Negative

• None.

Insights

M&A aerospace strategist

Hughes' acquisition of Anderson Connectivity strengthens aviation, space and defense engineering and manufacturing capability and local production in Melbourne.

By integrating Anderson Connectivity and its FAA Part 145 facility, Hughes adds specialized engineering talent, product lines, and a manufacturing foothold that directly supports aviation, space and defense product development and sustainment. The appointment of Brian Anderson as Vice President, Aviation Technology & Innovation Officer preserves technical leadership and continuity during integration.

Key dependencies include successful retention of technical staff, completion of the facility's Part 21 certification process, and effective operational integration to realize faster prototyping and scaled manufacturing. Regulatory approvals and certification timelines remain material to near-term capability delivery.

Watch execution over the next 6–18 months, focusing on workforce retention metrics, progress to Part 21 certification, and announced investments in the Melbourne site; these will indicate if the acquisition converts capability into measurable program wins.

GERMANTOWN, Md., Oct. 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Hughes Network Systems, LLC (HUGHES), an EchoStar company (Nasdaq: SATS), today announced it has acquired Anderson Connectivity, a leading aerospace innovator in design, engineering, and manufacturing services based in Melbourne, Florida. This acquisition significantly expands Hughes capabilities, adding key technology & engineering talent and product solutions while positioning the company for accelerated growth in the global aviation, space, and defense markets.

"Our Aviation and Defense business units at Hughes continue to excel," said Hamid Akhavan, president & CEO, Echostar. "EchoStar is investing in a robust future and is proud to add Anderson Connectivity to augment our already strong foundation".

As part of the acquisition, Hughes welcomes Brian Anderson, founder of Anderson Connectivity, who will join as Vice President, Aviation Technology & Innovation Officer. Hughes will also take over Anderson Connectivity's Melbourne facility, which will become a cornerstone of aviation innovation and rapid product development for Hughes and EchoStar.

"Brian Anderson is a visionary in aerospace technology, and his team brings unmatched expertise and capabilities," added Paul Gaske, Chief Operating Officer, Hughes. "This acquisition allows us to accelerate our innovation, global support, and deliver even greater value to our aviation customers while supporting the strong growth of our Defense and Space businesses."

Brian Anderson, founder of Anderson Connectivity, added, "Joining forces with Hughes enables us to take our delivery capabilities to the next level. With the global reach and manufacturing expertise at Hughes, we're now uniquely positioned to design, build, and repair groundbreaking aviation and space solutions. We look forward to driving innovation and delivering cutting-edge products together."

The Melbourne, Florida facility—currently holding FAA Part 145 certification and on track to obtain Part 21 certification—will serve as a hub for solution innovation and rapid prototyping. Hughes is committed to making substantial investments in the region.

About Hughes

Hughes Network Systems, LLC, an EchoStar company (Nasdaq: SATS), provides broadband equipment and services; managed services featuring smart, software-defined networking; and end-to-end network operation for millions of consumers, businesses, governments, airlines, and communities worldwide. The Hughes flagship internet service, Hughesnet®, connects millions of people across the Americas, and the Hughes JUPITER™ System powers internet access for tens of millions more worldwide. Hughes supplies more than half the global satellite terminal market to leading satellite operators, mobile network operators, and military customers. Hughes products and services have helped bring in-flight video and broadband to thousands of aircraft for over twenty years. A managed network services provider, Hughes supports approximately half a million enterprise sites with its portfolio of wired and wireless solutions including 5G Open RAN and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. To learn more, visit www.hughes.com or follow HughesConnects on X (Twitter) and LinkedIn. 

©2025 Hughes Network Systems, LLC, an EchoStar company. Hughes and Hughesnet are registered trademarks and JUPITER is a trademark of Hughes Network Systems, LLC.

 

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SOURCE Hughes Network Systems, LLC

FAQ

What did Hughes (SATS) announce on October 22, 2025 about Anderson Connectivity?

Hughes announced it acquired Anderson Connectivity, adding its Melbourne aerospace design and manufacturing capabilities.

How does the Anderson Connectivity acquisition affect Hughes' aviation and defense capabilities (SATS)?

The acquisition adds engineering talent, product solutions, and a manufacturing hub to accelerate aviation, space, and defense efforts.

Will Anderson Connectivity leadership join Hughes after the acquisition of Anderson Connectivity by Hughes (SATS)?

Yes; founder Brian Anderson will join Hughes as Vice President, Aviation Technology & Innovation Officer.

What certifications does the acquired Melbourne facility hold and pursue after Hughes (SATS) acquisition?

The Melbourne facility holds FAA Part 145 certification and is on track to obtain FAA Part 21 certification.

Does the Hughes (SATS) acquisition include manufacturing capacity and regional investment commitments?

Yes; Hughes will take over the Melbourne facility and committed to make substantial investments in the region.