With APG’s acquisition, Coltala Aerospace includes Evans Composites, APM, and ACD Consulting.
DALLAS and FORT WORTH, TX, Feb 19, 2025 – Coltala Holdings announces the creation of Coltala Aerospace, a transformative platform dedicated to advancing America’s aerospace and defense industries. With the acquisition of Aeroparts Group (APG), which grew by over 60% last year, Coltala supports businesses essential to air travel safety and national defense.
Through its acquisition of APG, Coltala Aerospace is comprised of three industry-leading businesses: Evans Composites, APM and ACD Consulting. These companies serve both commercial and military aerospace sectors, providing precision machining, Part 145 MRO repair station services and engineering expertise that align with Coltala’s mission to strengthen critical infrastructure through our essential service companies.
Coltala Aerospace is led by APG’s Dale Gabel, CEO, and Ricky Armstrong, founder and COO, whose leadership has driven exceptional growth. Coltala worked closely with the APG management team for four months prior to completing the acquisition, fostering alignment and a strong working relationship. This hands-on approach positioned APG for sustainable growth and a seamless transition to continue to serve some of the most important commercial airlines and military platforms in the world.
“In an era where national security and supply chain reliability are more critical than ever, Coltala Aerospace is well positioned to meet these challenges and turn them into opportunity,” said Edward Crawford, Navy and Afghan Veteran, co-founder and co-CEO of Coltala Holdings. “We are building a platform with great leaders like Dale and Ricky that support the aerospace and defense industries while creating opportunities for veterans and strengthening America’s position in the global market.”
Ralph Manning, co-founder and co-CEO of Coltala Holdings, noted, “We partnered with APG because of Dale and Ricky’s exceptional leadership and their team’s dedication to operational excellence and innovation. Their relentless focus drove impressive year-over-year growth of over 60% last year. Coltala’s enterprise system will unlock even greater potential.”
Strategic Vision for Aerospace Growth in DFW
Coltala Aerospace’s investment supports innovation and growth in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, a key hub for aerospace and defense, reinforcing DFW’s role in the American aerospace industry.
Modeled after successful platforms like Heico in Florida, APG unites industry-leading companies under a shared vision to advance aerospace and defense. With decades of experience and strong relationships with defense contractors, commercial aerospace leaders, and military stakeholders, Coltala and APG are well-positioned to make a lasting impact.
Dale Gabel, CEO of Coltala Aerospace, shared, “Coltala’s partnership brings fresh energy and resources to our team. Their values align perfectly with ours, and together, we will deliver exceptional results to our commercial and defense customers.”
Ricky Armstrong, founder and COO of Coltala Aerospace, added, “This partnership represents a new chapter for APG. Coltala’s collaborative approach has already proven its value, and we’re excited to contribute to an industry vital to America’s future.”
Coltala partnered with Thornburg Bow River Advisors, including managing director and head of private credit Aaron Arnett and vice president, Daniel Parks, who bring incredible resources and flexible capital solutions. “Dale, Ricky and the APG team have laid the groundwork for an extraordinary platform, providing meaningful contributions to the aerospace and defense industries. We are excited to support their next phase of growth alongside Coltala,” Aaron added. Coltala also partnered with Dustin Gibson and Hayden Greenbauer of Sunflower Bank who provided exceptional support in financing this transaction.
For more information, visit coltala.com.
