Ex-Airbus CEO Tom Enders Said to Be Near Job as KNDS Chairman

Former Airbus SEchief executive officer Tom Enders is close to being named chairman of KNDS NV, people familiar with the matter said, as the Franco-German tankmaker prepares for a possible initial public offering amid a surge in defense spending.

Enders has emerged as the strong favorite for the role, and his appointment could be announced in the next week or two, said the people, asking not to be identified because the deliberations are private. No final decision has been made and the timing and outcome could change, some of the people cautioned.

Enders would bring years of experience ...