8-KMaterial AgreementsRegulation FDExhibits & Filings

NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORP /DE/ 8-K Report, Material Agreement (Sep 18, 2017)

Filed September 18, 2017For Securities:NOC

Summary

Northrop Grumman Corporation (NOC) has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Orbital ATK, Inc. in a stock-for-stock transaction. Under the terms of the merger agreement, Orbital ATK shareholders will receive $134.50 in cash for each share of Orbital ATK common stock they own. This acquisition aims to strengthen Northrop Grumman's position in the aerospace and defense sector by integrating Orbital ATK's capabilities, particularly in space and defense solutions. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals such as the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act and the approval of Orbital ATK's stockholders. The company intends to finance the cash portion of the transaction through a combination of debt financing, including an $8.5 billion bridge loan facility committed by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., and existing cash on hand. Investors should note the significant cash component of the deal and the reliance on debt financing, which will impact the company's balance sheet.

Key Highlights

  • 1Northrop Grumman (NOC) to acquire Orbital ATK, Inc. in a cash transaction valued at $134.50 per share.
  • 2The acquisition is expected to enhance Northrop Grumman's presence in space and defense markets.
  • 3The deal is subject to Orbital ATK shareholder approval and customary regulatory clearances.
  • 4Financing for the transaction includes an $8.5 billion bridge loan commitment from JPMorgan Chase Bank.
  • 5The merger agreement includes termination provisions and a specified termination fee for Orbital ATK.
  • 6The transaction is anticipated to close pending satisfaction of all closing conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

The acquisition is structured as a cash transaction where Orbital ATK shareholders will receive $134.50 in cash for each share of Orbital ATK common stock they own. The total value of the deal would be the price per share multiplied by the total number of outstanding Orbital ATK shares, which is not explicitly stated in this 8-K but is implied by the per-share cash consideration.

Northrop Grumman plans to finance the acquisition through a combination of debt financing and cash on hand. Specifically, the company has secured a commitment for a 364-day senior unsecured bridge loan facility of up to $8.5 billion from JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. This debt financing may be reduced if Northrop Grumman secures alternative term loans or issues notes prior to closing.

The consummation of the merger is subject to several customary closing conditions. These include obtaining the approval of Orbital ATK stockholders and receiving required regulatory approvals, such as the expiration or termination of the waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976.

Yes, the merger agreement includes termination provisions for both Northrop Grumman and Orbital ATK. Orbital ATK may be required to pay a termination fee of $275 million under certain circumstances, such as if they enter into an agreement for a superior proposal or if their board of directors withdraws or modifies its recommendation in favor of the merger.