Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨

The aerospace and defence industry in Europe comprises a dynamic range of companies focused on Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ design, production, and maintenance of aircraft, space vehicles, and military systems. Major players include manufacturers like Airbus and Thales, alongside innovative tech startups in fields like satellite communication and unmanned systems. With increasing emphasis on sustainability and advanced technologies, this sector is evolving rapidly, driven by demand for greener solutions and heightened security concerns. Emerging trends point towards collaboration in space exploration and investments in cutting-edge defence capabilities, shaping a vibrant future for Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ European aerospace landscape.

This list highlights 15 notable investors actively engaging in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace and defence sector across Europe. Among Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m are corporate giants like Airbus and venture capital firms such as Seraphim Space, with varied forms of investment strategies reflecting Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir unique approaches. Headquartered mainly in Paris and London, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨se players range in size from small firms to large corporations. Founded as early as 1908, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y collectively engaged in over 400 deals in 2024 alone, showcasing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir commitment to nurturing innovation within this critical industry.

Top 15 Aerospace and Defence Investors in Europe

1. Seraphim Space

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 27
• LinkedIn:

Seraphim Space is a London-based venture capital firm founded in 2016, specializing in SpaceTech. They provide funding and support to startups in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ space technology sector through various investment funds and an accelerator program. Their primary focus is on helping entrepreneurs navigate Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ challenges of developing innovative space solutions. In 2023, Seraphim Space participated in significant funding rounds for companies like Auriga Space, which raised $5 million to advance electromagnetic technology for space launch, and Voyager Space, which secured $80.2 million for space infrastructure development. OÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r notable investments include Rhea Space and Skyrora, both of which are involved in aerospace-related technologies. This portfolio highlights Seraphim Space's commitment to advancing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace industry through strategic investments.

2. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 198
• LinkedIn:

Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a venture capital firm based in Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France, founded in 2015. As a public entity and financial institution, Bpifrance supports entrepreneurs and businesses in France and internationally through various services, including direct funding, export credit insurance, and private equity investments. The firm aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation, helping businesses navigate growth and international expansion. Bpifrance has been involved in several notable transactions in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace and defence sectors, including a significant investment in Preligens, a SAAS developer specializing in geospatial analytics, which has applications in defence. They also participated in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Sabena technics, enhancing its growth opportunities in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace industry. Additionally, Bpifrance led a $58 million Series B funding round for Exotrail, a French space logistics provider, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r demonstrating Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir commitment to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector.

3. European Innovation Council (EIC)

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
• Founded year: 1958
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 57
• LinkedIn:

The European Innovation Council (EIC) is a public entity based in Brussels, Belgium, established to support innovation and entrepreneurship across Europe. Founded in 1958, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ EIC offers various funding programs, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ EIC Accelerator and EIC Pathfinder, aimed at helping startups and SMEs develop and scale Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir technologies. The EIC also provides business acceleration services, networking opportunities, and prizes to foster innovation. Among its notable transactions, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ EIC has provided grants to companies such as Dawn Aerospace, which raised $1,404,249 in July 2022, and ThrustMe, which secured $2,310,803 in October 2021. Additionally, EIC has been involved in funding initiatives for NanoAvionics, which is working on a nano-satellite constellation relevant to aerospace applications. These transactions highlight EIC's active role in supporting Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector, particularly in innovative technology development.

4. European Space Agency - ESA

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 1975
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 10
• LinkedIn:

The European Space Agency (ESA) is a public entity dedicated to space exploration and research, founded in 1975 and headquartered in Paris, France. With a workforce of 1001-5000 employees, ESA conducts human spaceflight missions, Earth observation, and satellite navigation, serving governments and research organizations. ESA collaborates with international partners to advance space technology and provide critical data for scientific research and environmental monitoring. In recent years, ESA has been involved in several significant transactions relevant to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector. For instance, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y provided a grant to Dawn Aerospace for $203,134 to support Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir aerospace initiatives. Additionally, ESA has participated in funding rounds for companies like NanoAvionics, which received â‚�10 million for Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ development of a nano-satellite constellation, and SYLPHAERO, which raised $728,754 in a pre-seed round. These transactions highlight ESA's commitment to fostering innovation and development in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace industry, making Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m a key player in this field.

5. Safran

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 9
• LinkedIn:

Safran is a leading aerospace manufacturer and defense contractor based in Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France. Founded in 2005, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ company specializes in aircraft equipment, propulsion systems, and defense technologies, serving a diverse clientele that includes both aircraft manufacturers and military organizations. Safran is committed to providing innovative solutions that enhance safety and operational efficiency in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aviation and defense sectors. In recent years, Safran has made significant acquisitions to bolster its position in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace and defense markets, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Zodiac Aerospace for over $9 billion in 2017, which expanded Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir capabilities in aircraft systems. In 2024, Safran finalized Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Preligens, a company focused on defense technologies, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r solidifying its presence in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sector. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir acquisition of Optics 1 and Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ joint venture with MBDA to acquire a stake in CILAS demonstrate Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir strategic focus on enhancing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir technological offerings. Safran's active involvement in funding rounds, such as Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ investment in Cranfield Aerospace, showcases Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir commitment to fostering innovation within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace and defense industries.

6. Airbus

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Blagnac, Occitanie, France
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 6
• LinkedIn:

Airbus SE is a prominent aerospace manufacturer based in Blagnac, Occitanie, France, specializing in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ design and production of commercial aircraft, helicopters, defense systems, and space technology. Founded in 2003, Airbus serves a global customer base, including airlines, military organizations, and space agencies, providing innovative solutions that enhance connectivity, security, and exploration. In 2024, Airbus made notable acquisitions, including Aerovel, which focuses on unmanned aerial systems, reflecting Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir commitment to meeting Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ increasing global demand for advanced mission capabilities. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir acquisition of Vector Aerospace Corp in 2011 for approximately $648 million furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r solidifies Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir position in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace and defense sectors. Airbus is dedicated to sustainability and advancing aerospace technology, making Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m a key player in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ industry.

7. Tikehau Capital

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 501-1000
• Number of deals in 2024: 6
• LinkedIn:

Tikehau Capital is an investment management firm based in Paris, specializing in alternative asset management. Founded in 2004, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ firm offers a range of services including private debt, private equity, real assets, and capital markets strategies. Tikehau Capital has a diverse portfolio, with clients that include institutional and private investors, as well as SMEs seeking tailored financing solutions. In Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace and defence context, Tikehau has been involved in several notable transactions: Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y provided debt financing to Daher, a key player in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector, and participated in a private equity round for Mecachrome France, which operates in aerospace manufacturing. Additionally, Tikehau is in exclusive negotiations to acquire Sabena Technics, a company specializing in aeronautical maintenance, and has invested in Nexteam Group, a precision mechanics company that supports aerospace applications. These transactions highlight Tikehau's active role in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace and defence industry, reinforcing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir relevance as an investor in this sector.

8. Omnes

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 8
• LinkedIn:

Omnes Capital is a private equity firm based in Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France, founded in 1999. The firm specializes in investment management with a focus on sectors such as renewable energy and sustainable cities. However, Omnes has also made significant investments in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace and defence sector. Notably, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y participated in funding rounds for Quantum Systems, a German pioneer in AI-powered drone robotics, which raised substantial amounts in Series B and Series C funding. Additionally, Omnes acquired SOURIAU SAS, a company known for its aerospace components, indicating Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir strategic interest in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace industry. Their business model emphasizes long-term partnerships to foster growth and sustainability in critical infrastructure projects, which includes Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir investments in aerospace technologies.

9. Thales

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Meudon, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 1979
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 5
• LinkedIn:

Thales Group is a technology company founded in 1979, headquartered in Meudon, ÃŽle-De-France, France. With over 10,000 employees, Thales specializes in designing, developing, and manufacturing advanced electrical systems and devices for Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace, defense, transportation, and security sectors. The company has been actively involved in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace and defence industry through several significant acquisitions. Notably, in 2024, Thales acquired Cobham Aerospace Communications, enhancing its capabilities in aerospace communications. In 2006, Thales strengÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ned its position in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ European defense and security industry by acquiring Alcatel's 67% stake in satellite manufacturer Alcatel Alenia Space for over $2.1 billion. OÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r relevant acquisitions include Omnisys Engenharia in 2006 and Visionix in 2013, both of which contribute to Thales's extensive portfolio in aerospace and defence technologies. Thales serves a diverse clientele, including governments and commercial enterprises, providing solutions that enhance operational efficiency and safety.

10. Agoranov

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 42
• LinkedIn:

Agoranov is a startup incubator based in Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, founded in 2000. They focus on supporting early-stage technology and science startups through personalized assistance, fully equipped facilities, and acceleration programs. Among Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir notable transactions, Agoranov has invested in Preligens, which operates in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ defense sector, providing AI-driven solutions for military and security applications. They have also supported ThrustMe, which develops propulsion systems for small satellites, and Cailabs, which works on advanced photonics technologies that could have applications in aerospace. Their portfolio includes a mix of innovative companies, some of which align with aerospace and defence, showcasing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir capability to nurture startups in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨se critical sectors.

11. Bgf

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 53
• LinkedIn:

BGF Investment Management Limited is a venture capital firm based in London, England, founded in 2011. The firm specializes in providing growth funding and value creation support to small and mid-sized businesses across Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ UK and Ireland. BGF addresses Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ funding gap in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ market through minority investments and extensive support services. Notably, BGF has made significant investments in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector, including a £4 million funding round for Walker Precision Engineering, which is expanding its operations to meet increasing demand in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ space market. Additionally, BGF invested $20.77 million in Orbex Space in 2024, a company focused on developing environmentally-friendly space launch services. These transactions highlight BGF's commitment to supporting growth in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace and defence industries.

12. Crédit Mutuel Equity

• Website: creditmutuel-equity.eu
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 1988
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 2
• LinkedIn:

Crédit Mutuel Equity is a private equity investment firm based in Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France, founded in 1988. The firm focuses on providing capital and strategic support to businesses across various sectors, integrating economic and ESG considerations into Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir strategies. Among Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir notable transactions, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y invested in Satys, which raised approximately $46.3 million in a venture round in September 2021. Satys is known for its work in aerospace painting and surface treatment, highlighting Crédit Mutuel Equity's engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y have been involved with NSE Group and CRENO, although Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨se companies are less directly related to aerospace and defence. Overall, Crédit Mutuel Equity's diverse investment strategy includes significant players in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace industry, making Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m a noteworthy investor in this field.

13. European Investment Bank (EIB)

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Luxembourg
• Founded year: 1958
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 99
• LinkedIn:

The European Investment Bank (EIB) is a public entity based in Luxembourg, established in 1958, that provides financial services including loans, equity investments, guarantees, and advisory services to support sustainable projects across various sectors. In recent years, EIB has been actively involved in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace and defence industry, providing funding to companies that are at Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ forefront of technological innovation in this field. For instance, EIB granted â‚�10 million to Quantum-Systems GmbH, a leader in small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS), to expand operations and enhance technological capabilities in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ UAS mapping and surveillance industry. Additionally, EIB has engaged in venture debt financing agreements with GomSpace, a Danish company specializing in nano-satellite platforms, and Spire Global, which is developing a satellite constellation. These transactions highlight EIB's role in fostering growth and innovation in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector, making it a relevant investor in this industry.

14. Baillie Gifford

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1908
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 13
• LinkedIn:

Baillie Gifford & Co is an investment management firm based in Edinburgh, Scotland, specializing in managing equity, fixed-income, and multi-asset portfolios. Founded in 1908, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ firm serves professional investors, including institutions and high-net-worth individuals, with a focus on long-term growth opportunities. Baillie Gifford employs a research-driven approach to deliver sustainable returns for its clients. In recent years, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y have made significant investments in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace and defense sector, including a $1.5 billion investment in Anduril Industries in 2024, which specializes in advanced defense technologies. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y participated in a $486 million funding round for SpaceX in 2018, a leader in aerospace innovation. Their involvement in Relativity Space, which focuses on 3D printing technologies for rocket manufacturing, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r underscores Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir commitment to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace industry. FurÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨rmore, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir investment in TEKEVER, a company that develops unmanned aerial systems, highlights Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir active role in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ defense sector.

15. Bayern Kapital

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Landshut, Bavaria, Germany
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 27
• LinkedIn:

Bayern Kapital is a venture capital firm based in Landshut, Bavaria, Germany, founded in 1995. The firm specializes in providing investment and growth capital to innovative high-tech startups and scale-ups in Bavaria. Bayern Kapital supports its clients with financial resources and access to a network of industry experts, helping Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m navigate Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ challenges of growth and development in various sectors, including life sciences and software. Notably, Bayern Kapital has made significant investments in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector, including Quantum Systems, a pioneer in AI-powered drone robotics, which raised substantial funding in multiple rounds, and Isar Aerospace, which focuses on developing launch vehicles. These transactions underscore Bayern Kapital's commitment to fostering innovation in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace and defence industry.

Aerospace and Defence Insights: Key Investors in Europe

Investor	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Deals 2024
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	11-50	2016	27
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	1-10	2015	198
	Brussels, Brussels, Belgium	201-500	1958	57
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	1001-5000	1975	10
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	10001+	2005	9
	Blagnac, Occitanie, France	10001+	2003	6
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	501-1000	2004	6
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	51-200	1999	8
	Meudon, ÃŽle-De-France, France	10001+	1979	5
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	11-50	2000	42
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	51-200	2011	53
Crédit Mutuel Equity	Paris, Île-De-France, France	51-200	1988	2
	Luxembourg	1001-5000	1958	99
	Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)	1001-5000	1908	13
	Landshut, Bavaria, Germany	11-50	1995	27

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