Torque Races to Orbit with Latest Buy

Torque Capital Group has acquired Joe Gibbs Manufacturing Solutions from Joe Gibbs Racing. Following the close of the transaction, the acquired business will be rebranded as JGA Space & Defense. This transaction marks an exit for Joe Gibbs Racing, a championship-winning NASCAR team that originally established its manufacturing division to support its racing operations.

JGA Space & Defense is a manufacturer of advanced specialty composites and assemblies for solid rocket motor (SRM) propulsion systems. The company, headquartered near Charlotte in Huntersville, North Carolina, also produces machined components for the aerospace, space, and defense sectors. For example, the company manufactures hypersonic rocket nozzles designed to withstand temperatures exceeding 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit during atmospheric reentry, a requirement for modern missile defense interceptors.

As part of its formation and acquisition, JGA Space & Defense has secured a new 60,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Huntersville, with operations at the facility to begin in the first quarter of 2026.

Joe Gibbs Manufacturing was originally founded as the internal machine shop for Joe Gibbs Racing—which was established by NFL Hall of Fame coach Joe Gibbs in 1992. Over time, the division evolved to serve customers beyond Joe Gibbs Racing that operated in industries that required precision manufacturing of metal components.

“This investment, expansion and rebranding represent an exciting new chapter for JGA Space & Defense,” said Jonathan Saltzman, a managing partner at Torque Capital. “As growth-oriented entrepreneurs and operators, we are closely aligned with JGA’s legacy of precision, innovative engineering and excellence, and we are proud to support pivotal roles in the supply chains for both national security and space exploration. With an expanded facility, a growing team and additional manufacturing capabilities, we are well positioned to scale operations, drive innovation and deepen long-term customer partnerships in the space and defense industries.”

According to data published by MarketsandMarkets, the global solid rocket motor market was valued at $6.8 billion in 2024. The sector is projected to reach $10.0 billion by 2029, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.1%. Market expansion is primarily attributed to rising geopolitical instability, which has accelerated the replenishment of missile defense stockpiles, alongside increased investment in next-generation propulsion systems for commercial and government space exploration programs.

Westport, Connecticut-based Torque Capital invests up to up to $100 million in North America-based companies that have less than $35 million of EBITDA. Sectors of interest include manufacturing, supply chain services, and niche/enthusiast branded products.