Rockford engineering firm Kaney Aerospace joins national defense tech ecosystem. Posted: Feb 25, 2026 / 01:36 PM CST Updated: Feb 25, 2026 / 05:38 PM CST ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) - Rockford's Kaney Aerospace, known for its advanced actuation, motion-control and power-system technologies, has been acquired by Velocity One, an aerospace and defense platform backed by Charlesbank Capital Partners. Kaney, founded and headquartered in Rockford, employs more than 110 workers, including over 20 engineers in electrical, mechanical, software and aerospace disciplines. The company develops high-reliability motion-control systems, electric brake components, cockpit controls, and test-lab architecture used by major commercial and defense aviation programs worldwide. Its products fly on platforms ranging from traditional commercial jets to emerging Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) and autonomous aircraft. In addition to aerospace, Kaney supplies tens of thousands of components and systems to major medical-device manufacturers each year, including high-precision gear assemblies and robotic system components. The company also operates an FAA Part 145 and EASA-certified repair station. Rockford executive takes pride in manufacturing aircraft components and parts Jeffrey J. Kaney, Sr., who has led the company through years of expansion into high-value engineering and electromechanical systems, continues in his leadership role. Karan Talreja, Vice President at Charlesbank Capital Partners, said the acquisition strengthens Velocity One's capabilities in motion control and actuation - core engineering areas that Kaney has built its reputation around. "Kaney Aerospace is a natural addition to the Velocity One platform, adding motion control and actuation capabilities that complement our existing portfolio," Talreja said in the announcement. Kaney Aerospace has been one of the Rockford region's key contributors to the aerospace supply chain - an industry that employs thousands across northern Illinois. While the companies did not disclose financial details, the acquisition places Rockford-based engineering and manufacturing talent into a larger national defense-technology ecosystem.

Velocity One, an aerospace and defense platform backed by Charlesbank Capital Partners, has acquired Kaney Aerospace. Financial terms were not disclosed. Headquartered in Rockford, Illinois, Kaney Aerospace specialises in electromechanical actuation, motion control and advanced power solutions for aerospace and medical applications. The company operates an FAA Part 145 and EASA-certified repair station, serving commercial and defense platforms worldwide, with growing adoption in Advanced Air Mobility and autonomous vehicles. The acquisition expands Velocity One's portfolio, which includes Cartridge Actuated Devices, EMCORE Corporation and Aerosphere Power & Navigation. Since 2022, Velocity One has assembled specialised aerospace and defense companies with expertise in mission-critical systems. RBC Capital Markets advised Kaney Aerospace, whilst Foley & Lardner served as legal counsel to Velocity One.

Kaney expects to invest about $1.7 million into its office and research and facility on First Street, Gondol's memo states.