LevelBlue , a global leader in cloud-based, AI-powered managed security services (MSS), has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Trustwave , a global provider of cybersecurity and managed detection and response (MDR) services, from MC 2 Security Fund (MC 2 ), a private equity fund sponsored by The Chertoff Group, an internationally recognized security and development consultancy. This strategic acquisition complements LevelBlue’s recent agreement to acquire the cybersecurity consulting business of Aon, formerly known as Stroz Friedberg, and further strengthens the company’s market-leading position. It brings together two leading managed security service providers (MSSPs) to deliver unparalleled cybersecurity results through a comprehensive and expanded suite of services designed to stay ahead of an ever-evolving threat landscape. This acquisition will create the largest specialized MSSP in the industry.
It will integrate LevelBlue’s extensive expertise in strategic risk management and cybersecurity infrastructure with Trustwave’s Fusion platform and cloud-native MDR service, which provides 24/7 cybersecurity protection to enterprises worldwide. These combined capabilities provide organizations with unparalleled visibility and control over how security resources are provisioned, monitored, and managed within any environment, strengthening overall cyber resilience. The combined portfolios will also enable a strategically unified cybersecurity managed platform, supported by LevelBlue’s AI-driven threat detection platform and SpiderLabs threat hunting and intelligence capabilities , protecting critical assets across cloud, hybrid, and on-premises environments.
Earlier this year, Trustwave became the first specialized MDR service provider to achieve full Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP) status . This prestigious distinction, combined with Trustwave’s StateRAMP authorization , allows LevelBlue to meet the U.S. Department of Defense’s stringent “US eyes only” requirements for Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) for MDR services in federal, state, and local markets.
Also Read: Blaize Secures $56M Edge AI Deployment Across Southeast Asia’s Smart Infrastructure
“The acquisition of Trustwave represents a pivotal moment for LevelBlue and the cybersecurity industry as a whole,” said Robert McCullen, CEO of LevelBlue. “Trustwave’s extensive expertise in managed detection and response services, combined with its unparalleled threat intelligence from SpiderLabs and mission-critical FedRAMP and StateRAMP authorizations, aligns perfectly with our vision of delivering simplified and powerful cybersecurity protection to enterprises. This strategic move demonstrates our commitment to delivering better cybersecurity outcomes for our customers and strengthens our go-to-market capabilities globally, as well as in the U.S. federal, state, and local markets.”
“We are excited to partner with LevelBlue to drive our next phase of growth and deliver even more value to our customers in cybersecurity,” said Eric Harmon, CEO of Trustwave. “The threat landscape continues to evolve at an ever-increasing pace. This agreement reinforces Trustwave’s market leadership and, together with LevelBlue, positions us to further strengthen our leadership position, strengthen our portfolio of security solutions (offensive and defensive), and drive innovation to better protect and secure our customers against disruptive and harmful cyber threats.”
Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with a global presence, Trustwave employs more than 1,000 security professionals. It is recognized by analysts as a leader in managed detection and response, managed security services, cybersecurity consulting services, penetration testing, database security, and email security. The elite Trustwave SpiderLabs team provides industry-leading threat research, intelligence, and detection services. These services are all integrated into Trustwave’s services and products to strengthen cyber resilience in an era where cyberattacks are inevitable.
“The combination of two historical leaders in MSS and MDR services is a testament to market maturity and consolidation, but also a significant opportunity,” said Christina Richmond, Principal Analyst at Richmond Advisory Group. “Trustwave’s SpiderLabs team and Fusion platform, integrated with LevelBlue’s threat intelligence and machine learning capabilities, with support from OTX (Open Threat Exchange), will enhance threat detection and response on a cloud-based platform. This, coupled with the recent acquisition of Aon’s Cybersecurity and IP Litigation Consulting Groups, paves the way for a global, full-service cybersecurity and risk management firm.”
“Our alliance with LevelBlue ushers in an exciting new chapter for Trustwave and our customers,” said Chad Sweet, President of Trustwave and co-founder of The Chertoff Group / MC 2. “The combination of LevelBlue’s AI-driven threat detection and Trustwave’s FedRAMP and StateRAMP certified Fusion Intelligent Security Operations Platform delivers industry-leading cybersecurity for enterprise and government customers.”
This acquisition is a key component of LevelBlue’s overall strategy, which aims to combine best-in-class companies with its own capabilities to deliver optimal results for its clients. This portfolio consolidation was strategically designed to meet the growing demand for more comprehensive and integrated managed cybersecurity solutions, positioning LevelBlue as the world’s largest independent, specialized MSSP.
“The FedRAMP and StateRAMP certified managed detection and response capabilities represent an exciting expansion of LevelBlue’s managed security services,” added Shawn Hakl, Head of Commercial Products at AT&T. “This merger positions LevelBlue as a strategic cybersecurity services provider within the AT&T portfolio, particularly for our prestigious federal customers.”
Santander is acting as financial advisor and Kirkland & Ellis LLP is acting as legal advisor to LevelBlue. Guggenheim Securities is acting as financial advisor and Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman is acting as legal advisor to Trustwave. The Chertoff Group will collaborate with LevelBlue to provide strategic insights to further accelerate growth in the MDR market segment. Financial terms were not disclosed and the acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions.
Source: BusinessWire