Post-close · Aerospace & Defense

Aerospace & Defense Dividend Recapitalization: An Independent Sponsor's Counsel

Structuring Dividend Recapitalization on aerospace and defense deals, with the structure protection and capital connectivity an independent sponsor actually needs.

EV range $15M to $200M EV EBITDA $3M to $30M Audience Independent Sponsor
The deal context

Every aerospace and defense acquisition has its own gravity. Dividend Recapitalization is the workstream where independent sponsor counsel earns the seat.

The typical aerospace and defense platform sits at $15M to $200M EV with EBITDA in the $3M to $30M range. The thesis runs on tier-two or tier-three supplier consolidation with certifications as moat. Foreign LP capital can trigger CFIUS review on the cleanest of deals. Map the cap table early.

The moves

How Dividend Recapitalization actually gets structured.

  1. Time the recap when leverage has come down and EBITDA has grown.

  2. Structure the new senior debt with room for ongoing operations and add-ons.

  3. Confirm that the LP waterfall recognizes the distribution as recap, not exit.

  4. Coordinate tax treatment of the distribution with the LPs in advance.

  5. In aerospace and defense, layer in ITAR / EAR registration transferred or refiled before close as part of the Dividend Recapitalization workstream.

The common mistake

Recapping too early. Lenders price it; LPs feel it; the next deal cost goes up.

Jason's take
"Recaps are a tool, not a habit. Use them when the operating story supports them."
Jason Powell · Dividend Recapitalization
Capital after close

The deal is one thing. The capital that opens up after close is another.

After close, the call list for refinancing, recapitalization, and growth equity gets short and known. Jason carries that list.

MONTH 18
Senior refi
MONTH 24
Dividend recap
MONTH 36
Growth equity
YEAR 4–5
Strategic exit
ENGAGE THE PRACTICE

Dividend Recapitalization for Aerospace & Defense, on independent sponsor terms.

Independent sponsor counsel that already speaks fluent deal-by-deal economics, structures clean LPAs, and travels with capital markets relationships for what comes after close.