Woodward has signed a definitive agreement to sell its pilot controls product line and associated services to Ontic Engineering and Manufacturing. The divested portfolio includes throttle quadrant assemblies, rudder pedals and passive side sticks produced at Woodward’s Niles, Illinois facility and remains subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.

Management views the divestiture as a step toward focusing resources on high-growth aerospace and defense portfolios. The transaction complements recent strategic moves including the acquisition of Valve Research and Manufacturing, servo line relocation to Rock Cut and construction of a Spartanburg actuation systems facility.

Under the terms, Woodward will enter a long-term supply agreement to remain the sole provider of engineered electromechanical components for pilot controls. The company will also deliver transition services over a nine to twelve month period to ensure uninterrupted customer deliveries post-close.