The acquisition of NKT Photonics by the Hamamatsu Photonics Group is now complete, giving the Japanese company coverage of a broad range of laser, detector and light source technologies to accelerate growth in the semiconductor, quantum and medical fields.
Although the takeover was originally planned for the first quarter of 2023, the transaction was originally blocked by the Danish Minster for Industry, Business and Financial Affairs. It was announced last month, however, that after a period of “necessary internal and external consultations” with the relevant Danish authorities, Hamamatsu had been granted regulatory approval for the takeover after re-submitting the acquisition application.
Hamamatsu’s takeover of NKT Photonics over the line
“We are very pleased to welcome NKT Photonics to the Hamamatsu Photonics Group, where they will form the backbone of our laser division,” said Tadashi Maruno, CEO of Hamamatsu Photonics. “By combining Hamamatsu’s expertise within photodetectors with NKT Photonics’ market-leading lasers and fibres, we will be able to provide unique system solutions to our core markets.”
One of those areas of the photonics market where the addition of NKT Photonics to the Hamamatsu family will have the greatest impact is the rapidly growing quantum computing sector. NKT Photonics’ Koheras lasers already serve customers with trapped ion systems that require high-power narrow linewidth lasers with extremely high wavelength stability and low noise. Meanwhile, the same customers are using Hamamatsu Photonics’ high-sensitivity cameras and sensors to detect the quantum state of qubits, for example. Together, the two businesses can provide comprehensive solutions for the quantum technology market, including lasers, detectors and optical devices.
“At NKT Photonics we are excited and honoured to become part of Hamamatsu Photonics,” said Basil Garabet, CEO of NKT Photonics. “We share common goals and a vision of providing the best solutions to our customers and innovators. Together, and with out complementary technology platforms, we will be stronger than ever.”
