The SERMA Group, through its subsidiary SERMA Ingénierie, announces the acquisition of TDM, a company specialising in the design and production of embedded computers for military and defence environments.
Recognised expertise in military embedded equipment
TDM designs and manufactures high value-added embedded electronic equipment for signal and video processing. The company supplies integrated critical equipment for the aerospace sector and works closely with two major players: DASSAULT and MBDA.
For example, TDM contributed to the onboard systems of the new-generation Rafale (F5) by developing:
- A multi-computer video flow reorientation device for DASSAULT,
- A detection system for MBDA, also used on board the Rafale.
In addition to these strategic products, TDM also supplies MBDA with legacy equipment, for which demand is growing strongly in the current geopolitical context.
TDM is also active in the land and naval sectors, designing and producing systems for armoured vehicles, such as the Leclerc tank, and for military vessels such as frigates.
A successful transformation and a model in full acceleration
After a transition period between 2016 and 2018, TDM strategically refocused on the development of proprietary products. This reorientation, supported by the ramp-up of military programmes, enabled the company to return to growth and achieve revenue of €4.8 million for the financial year ended March 2024.
Until now focused on design, the company is preparing to take a major step forward with the start of series production of its new equipment in 2024, marking a turning point in its business model.
An acquisition offering strong synergies for SERMA Ingénierie
This acquisition has several major advantages for SERMA Ingénierie:
- Direct access to two strategic accounts (DASSAULT and MBDA), which SERMA has had little involvement with to date
- Acquisition of cutting-edge expertise in ARINC 818, a video interconnection technology in high demand from players in the aerospace sector (AIRBUS, SAFRAN, etc.)
- Strengthening of the Bordeaux design office, consolidating SERMA Ingénierie’s response capacity in the face of increased project workload.
‘With the integration of TDM, we are expanding our technology portfolio and customer base in the strategic defence sector. We are delighted to welcome an expert team that complements our own, with whom we share a culture of operational excellence and high-level technical expertise,’ said Pierre-Olivier BESOMBES, CEO of SERMA Group.
A transition prepared in consultation with the founder
Marc de TAPOL, founder of TDM, has been considering the transfer of his company for several months, with a view to his retirement and the continuity of its sensitive activities. The takeover by SERMA Ingénierie ensures the long-term future of TDM while offering it new development opportunities within an independent group committed to critical technologies.
