Marlink acquires GRC to strengthen European government, defence and critical infrastructure growth

Marlink has signed a definitive agreement to acquire 100% of Global RadioData Communications Ltd (GRC), a UK specialist in communication networks for defence and government customers. The transaction is expected to close later in August 2026.

Based in Hereford, GRC will contribute around £35 million in revenue and 30 specialist professionals, further strengthening Marlink’s position and capabilities in the European government and defence sector. GRC designs, integrates and supports satellite, RF, cloud and IP networking solutions, including rapidly deployable communications and situational awareness systems. Its work with the UK Ministry of Defence and NATO is underpinned by specialist personnel and bespoke processes required by defense customers.

The acquisition comes at a time of increased geopolitical awareness, when governments and critical national infrastructure operators need communication systems they can fully rely on during events of disruption. Demand is growing for highly resilient, secure and sovereign-grade managed connectivity that can support mission-critical operations when terrestrial networks are constrained or compromised.

By acquiring GRC, Marlink adds a long-standing and reputable UK operation with defence-focused engineering, product and service capabilities to its Government and Defence business unit. The combination will accelerate Marlink’s growth strategy across Europe and give customers access to multi-orbit satellite connectivity, managed networks, IT, cloud and cyber security capabilities from a single provider.

For GRC, Marlink brings scale, engineering and innovation capabilities, global operations, established satellite network partnerships and financial strength to support growth beyond the UK market. Together, Marlink and GRC will continue their technology agnostic strategy, supporting customers’ mission-critical operations with the best available connectivity, network, cyber security, IT and cloud technologies combined in fully managed environments.

GRC will continue to operate as GRC Ltd under its established brand, with the same leadership team and employees, ensuring continuity of service for existing customers.

“This acquisition is an important step in scaling our European government and defence business,” said Erik Ceuppens Marlink Group CEO. “GRC brings proven defence expertise, and a deep relationship with the UK Ministry of Defence. Together, we share the commitment to delivering mission-critical communications and digital solutions for customers operating in the world’s most demanding environments, and our ambition is nothing less than becoming the partner of choice for governments and critical infrastructure operators across Europe.”

“Today marks a significant milestone in GRC’s journey,” said Iain Pope, Chairman of GRC Ltd. “Joining Marlink gives us the scale, investment and global capabilities to grow while continuing to support the customers who rely on us today. Together, we can offer broader managed services to defence, government and critical infrastructure customers as their communications and digital needs become more complex.”