The aerospace and defence industry in DACH is vital, intertwining national security with advanced technology. Companies range from established manufacturers like Airbus to emerging tech startups focused on satellite connectivity and drone services. Together, they innovate to meet increasing demands for defence capabilities and space exploration. This sector is experiencing a transformation, driven by advancements in robotics, artificial intelligence, and sustainability practices. Notably, as Europe calls for stronger military capabilities, investment in cutting-edge technologies is expected to rise significantly in the coming years, promising exciting developments for industry stakeholders.


This list includes a mix of corporate and venture capital investors headquartered across Bavaria, Schleswig-Holstein, and beyond. They vary in size, with teams that range from small, agile firms to substantial corporations with 10,000+ employees. Founded between 1820 and 2021, these investors were active in 2024, executing varied deal counts from 1 to 32. Each brings a strategic focus on aerospace and defence, aiming to drive innovation and support ambitious projects in this dynamic sector.


Top 15 Aerospace and Defence Investors in DACH


1. Bayern Kapital

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

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 them navigate the challenges of growth and development in various sectors, including life sciences and software. Notably, Bayern Kapital has made significant investments in the 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 illustrate Bayern Kapital's active role in the aerospace and defence industry, making it a relevant investor in this space.


2. Possible Ventures

  • Website: possible.ventures
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
  • Founded year: 2021
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 9
  • LinkedIn: possible-vc

Possible Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, founded in 2021. The firm has a small team of 1-10 members and has been active in various investment rounds, with 9 investments made in 2024 alone. While their primary focus is not exclusively on aerospace and defence, they have made significant investments in relevant companies within this sector. For instance, they participated in a $5 million funding round for Auriga Space, which is developing electromagnetic technology for space launch, and in a pre-seed round for InSpacePropulsion Technologies, which raised approximately $2.15 million for its propulsion technologies. Additionally, Possible Ventures has invested in Cosmic Aerospace, which is working on an all-electric regional airplane, further demonstrating their engagement in aerospace innovation.


3. AM Ventures


AM Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Starnberg, Bavaria, Germany, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in investments in additive manufacturing technologies, supporting startups and entrepreneurs in the industrial 3D printing sector by providing funding and strategic guidance. In 2024, AM Ventures participated in significant funding rounds for companies like Fortius Metals, which raised $2 million to scale manufacturing capacity, and Conflux Technology, an Australian innovator in metal additive manufacturing, which raised $11 million in a Series B round. These investments highlight AM Ventures' commitment to fostering innovation in advanced manufacturing, which is increasingly relevant to the aerospace industry, where lightweight and complex components are critical.


4. Hensoldt

  • Website: hensoldt.net
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Taufkirchen, Bavaria, Germany
  • Founded year: 2017
  • Headcount: 5001-10000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: hensoldt

Hensoldt AG, founded in 2017 and based in Taufkirchen, Bavaria, Germany, is a corporate investor specializing in defense technology. The company focuses on sensor solutions for protection and surveillance missions, serving military and security organizations globally. Hensoldt's commitment to innovation is evident in its recent transactions, including the acquisition of ESG Elektroniksystem- und Logistik-GmbH for EUR 675 million, aimed at enhancing its defense technology capabilities. Additionally, Hensoldt acquired Kelvin Hughes, a manufacturer of maritime navigation and surveillance radar systems, and EuroAvionics, which strengthens its portfolio in both military and civil avionics. These strategic acquisitions highlight Hensoldt's active role in the aerospace and defense industry, making it a significant player in this sector.


5. Alpine Space Ventures


Alpine Space Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, specializing in the NewSpace industry. The firm invests in early-stage companies that focus on satellite connectivity and geospatial data technologies, providing funding and industry expertise to help startups scale their operations. In recent transactions, Alpine Space Ventures has invested in K2 Space, which has secured contracts with the US Department of Defense, highlighting its involvement in the aerospace sector. Additionally, the firm participated in funding rounds for Reflex Aerospace, which is developing a low Earth orbit constellation, and Morpheus Space, which is expanding its manufacturing capabilities for space technologies. Another notable investment is in Blackwave GmbH, which is creating carbon fiber high-pressure tanks for launch vehicles and satellites. These transactions demonstrate Alpine Space Ventures' active role in supporting innovative solutions within the aerospace and defence industries.


6. Vsquared Ventures

  • Website: vsquared.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
  • Founded year: 2020
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 12
  • LinkedIn: vsquared-ventures

Vsquared Ventures Management GmbH is a venture capital firm based in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, founded in 2020. The firm specializes in investing in innovative startups across high-tech industries, including aerospace, quantum computing, and robotics. Vsquared Ventures aims to support entrepreneurs by providing funding and resources to help scale their technologies, focusing on transformative solutions that advance society. Notably, they have invested in Morpheus Space, which raised funds to enhance its manufacturing capabilities for propulsion systems, and Isar Aerospace, which has successfully completed multiple funding rounds to develop its rocket technology and prepare for operational flights. Their portfolio reflects a commitment to fostering technological advancements in the aerospace sector.


7. HV Capital

  • Website: hvcapital.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
  • Founded year: 2000
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 28
  • LinkedIn: hvventures

HV Capital is a venture capital firm based in Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, founded in 2000. With over €2.8 billion under management, HV Capital specializes in investing in digital companies and supporting entrepreneurs from seed stage to exit. In recent years, they have expanded their portfolio to include significant investments in the aerospace sector. Notably, they led funding rounds for Quantum Systems, a pioneer in AI-powered drone robotics, raising substantial amounts in Series B and Series C rounds. Additionally, HV Capital has invested in Isar Aerospace, a company focused on developing launch vehicles, participating in their Series B and Series C funding rounds. These transactions highlight HV Capital's strategic interest in the aerospace and defence industry, alongside their broader focus on digital innovation.


8. Earlybird Venture Capital


Earlybird Venture Capital is a venture capital firm based in Germany, founded in 1997. The firm specializes in investing in European technology innovators, providing financial resources and strategic support to startups, particularly in the digital health and deep tech sectors. In recent years, Earlybird has made notable investments in the aerospace industry, particularly in Isar Aerospace, which has raised significant funding across multiple rounds, including a €155M Series C round in March 2023 and a $75M Series B round in July 2021. Isar Aerospace is focused on developing launch vehicles and has completed extensive testing of its rocket engine, positioning itself as a key player in the aerospace sector. Earlybird's involvement in such transactions highlights their capability and interest in supporting innovation within the aerospace and defence industry.


9. Siemens

  • Website: siemens.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
  • Founded year: 1847
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 11
  • LinkedIn: siemens

Siemens AG is a leading technology conglomerate based in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, specializing in industrial automation, energy solutions, rail transport, and health technology. Founded in 1847, Siemens operates globally with approximately 320,000 employees and significant revenue generation. Notably, Siemens has made strategic investments in the aerospace sector, including the acquisition of an 85% stake in Materials Solutions Ltd., a 3D printing company focused on additive manufacturing for gas turbines and aerospace systems. This acquisition, announced on August 2, 2016, highlights Siemens' intent to enhance its capabilities in aerospace technology. Additionally, Siemens' recent acquisition of Altair Engineering Inc. for $10 billion, while primarily focused on engineering software, also supports aerospace applications, further solidifying its position in the aerospace and defence industry.


10. Frequentis

  • Website: frequentis.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Vienna, Vienna, Austria
  • Founded year: 1947
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: frequentis

Frequentis is a communication technology company based in Vienna, Austria, specializing in safety-critical communication and information systems for control centers. Founded in 1947, the company has over 75 years of experience and operates globally, providing solutions that enhance operational efficiency and safety in various sectors, including air traffic management, public safety, and transport. Frequentis has made strategic acquisitions to bolster its position in the aerospace sector, notably acquiring the Air Traffic Management business from L3Harris Technologies for US$20 million, which included their ATM voice communication systems product line. This acquisition is part of Frequentis's growth strategy in air traffic management. Additionally, Frequentis acquired a 51% stake in ATRiCS, a German company specializing in Air Traffic Management technology, further expanding its offerings to airports and Air Navigation Service Providers. The company also participated in a Series A funding round for Altitude Angel, a UK-based drone management platform, indicating its interest in innovative technologies within the aerospace domain.


11. BASF Venture Capital

  • Website: basf.de
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Ludwigshafen, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany
  • Founded year: 2001
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: basf

BASF Venture Capital, founded in 2001 and based in Ludwigshafen, Germany, is the corporate venture capital arm of BASF, a leading chemical manufacturer. The firm focuses on innovation and sustainability across various industries, including automotive, construction, and agriculture. Notably, BASF Venture Capital has made significant investments in the aerospace sector, including an $8 million investment in Bellatrix Aerospace in June 2022. This funding is aimed at developing thruster modules and space transportation technology, showcasing BASF's commitment to advancing aerospace capabilities. Additionally, their investment in Ultracell, although not directly related to aerospace, reflects their interest in innovative technologies that could have applications in various fields, including defence. Overall, BASF Venture Capital is positioned as a forward-thinking investor with a growing interest in aerospace and defence technologies.


12. La Famiglia

  • Website: lafamiglia.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
  • Founded year: 2016
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 4
  • LinkedIn: la-famiglia-vc

La Famiglia is a venture capital fund based in Berlin, Germany, founded in 2016. The firm specializes in early-stage and growth-stage investments in technology companies, providing capital, market access, and strategic partnerships to support tech entrepreneurs. La Famiglia aims to enable disruptive innovations across various industries, leveraging the expertise of world-leading entrepreneurs in its network. Among their notable transactions, they invested in Stoke Space, a company focused on space technology, and Identify3D, which provides software for digital manufacturing with applications in aerospace and defense. Furthermore, they participated in the funding round for Helsing, a defense AI technology developer, which emphasizes their engagement in the aerospace and defense sector. This diverse portfolio showcases La Famiglia's commitment to supporting innovative technologies that can impact various industries, including aerospace and defense.


13. Ohb Se

  • Website: ohb.de
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Bremen, Bremen, Germany
  • Founded year: 1981
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: ohb-se

OHB SE is a prominent aerospace and technology company based in Bremen, Germany, founded in 1981. The company specializes in satellite systems and space exploration, providing advanced solutions for navigation, earth observation, and military applications. OHB serves a diverse clientele, including governmental and commercial sectors. Notable transactions include the acquisition of MT Aerospace AG in June 2005 for approximately 120 million euros, which significantly bolstered OHB's cash flow and earnings through new business opportunities. Additionally, the acquisition of a 50 percent stake in RST Raumfahrt Systemtechnik GmbH in January 2008 enhanced OHB's access to radar technologies for spaceborne reconnaissance projects. Furthermore, the acquisition of Aerotech Peissenberg GmbH & Co. KG in 2011 expanded MT Aerospace's aeronautics business, reinforcing OHB's strategic position in the aerospace sector.


14. Deutsche Bank

  • Website: db.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany
  • Founded year: 1870
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 32
  • LinkedIn: deutsche-bank

Deutsche Bank AG, founded in 1870 and headquartered in Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany, is a leading investment bank and financial services provider. The bank offers a comprehensive range of solutions including investment banking, corporate banking, cash management, trade finance, and securities services. It serves corporate and institutional clients, helping them manage their financial assets and liquidity effectively through its digital platform, Autobahn. In recent years, Deutsche Bank has been involved in several notable transactions in the aerospace and defence sector, including a significant debt financing of $845 million for Fincantieri, a company engaged in shipbuilding with defense contracts. Additionally, Deutsche Bank facilitated $500 million in debt financing for Avolon Holdings, a major player in aircraft leasing, and $500 million for Wings Capital Partners, which also operates in the aviation sector. These transactions highlight Deutsche Bank's active role in supporting the aerospace industry.


15. Project A

  • Website: project-a.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
  • Founded year: 2012
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 13
  • LinkedIn: project-a-ventures

Project A is a venture capital firm based in Berlin, Germany, founded in 2012. They specialize in early-stage tech investments and provide operational support for startups. Their services include consulting in tech and growth, access to a network of investors, and pre-seed investment opportunities. In 2023, Project A participated in significant funding rounds for Quantum Systems, a German pioneer in AI-powered drone robotics, contributing to their Series B and Series C rounds, which raised substantial amounts of capital. Additionally, they invested in ARX Robotics, which raised funds in both Seed and Series A rounds. These transactions highlight Project A's engagement in the aerospace and defence sector, particularly in innovative technologies related to robotics and drones.



Aerospace and Defence Insights: Key Investors in DACH


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Bayern KapitalLandshut, Bavaria, Germany11-50199527
Possible VenturesMunich, Bavaria, Germany1-1020219
AM VenturesStarnberg, Bavaria, Germany1-1020153
HensoldtTaufkirchen, Bavaria, Germany5001-1000020171
Alpine Space VenturesFlensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany1-101
Vsquared VenturesMunich, Bavaria, Germany1-10202012
HV CapitalFlensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany11-50200028
Earlybird Venture CapitalGermany51-200199729
SiemensMunich, Bavaria, Germany10001+184711
FrequentisVienna, Vienna, Austria1001-500019471
BASF Venture CapitalLudwigshafen, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany10001+20013
La FamigliaBerlin, Berlin, Germany11-5020164
Ohb SeBremen, Bremen, Germany1001-500019810
Deutsche BankFrankfurt, Hesse, Germany10001+187032
Project ABerlin, Berlin, Germany51-200201213


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