The aerospace and defence industry in Europe comprises a dynamic range of companies focused on the 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 the European aerospace landscape.


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


Top 15 Aerospace and Defence Investors in Europe


1. Seraphim Space

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

Seraphim Space is a London-based venture capital firm founded in 2016, specializing in SpaceTech. They provide funding and support to startups in the space technology sector through various investment funds and an accelerator program. Their primary focus is on helping entrepreneurs navigate the 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. Other 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 the aerospace industry through strategic investments.


2. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération


Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a venture capital firm based in Paris, Île-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 the 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 the acquisition of Sabena technics, enhancing its growth opportunities in the aerospace industry. Additionally, Bpifrance led a $58 million Series B funding round for Exotrail, a French space logistics provider, further demonstrating their commitment to the aerospace sector.


3. European Innovation Council (EIC)


The European Innovation Council (EIC) is a public entity based in Brussels, Belgium, established to support innovation and entrepreneurship across Europe. Founded in 1958, the EIC offers various funding programs, including the EIC Accelerator and EIC Pathfinder, aimed at helping startups and SMEs develop and scale their technologies. The EIC also provides business acceleration services, networking opportunities, and prizes to foster innovation. Among its notable transactions, the 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 the aerospace sector, particularly in innovative technology development.


4. European Space Agency - ESA

  • Website: esa.int
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1975
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 10
  • LinkedIn: european-space-agency

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 the aerospace sector. For instance, they provided a grant to Dawn Aerospace for $203,134 to support their aerospace initiatives. Additionally, ESA has participated in funding rounds for companies like NanoAvionics, which received €10 million for the 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 the aerospace industry, making them a key player in this field.


5. Safran

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

Safran is a leading aerospace manufacturer and defense contractor based in Paris, Île-De-France, France. Founded in 2005, the 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 the aviation and defense sectors. In recent years, Safran has made significant acquisitions to bolster its position in the aerospace and defense markets, including the acquisition of Zodiac Aerospace for over $9 billion in 2017, which expanded their capabilities in aircraft systems. In 2024, Safran finalized the acquisition of Preligens, a company focused on defense technologies, further solidifying its presence in the sector. Additionally, their acquisition of Optics 1 and the joint venture with MBDA to acquire a stake in CILAS demonstrate their strategic focus on enhancing their technological offerings. Safran's active involvement in funding rounds, such as the investment in Cranfield Aerospace, showcases their commitment to fostering innovation within the aerospace and defense industries.


6. Airbus

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

Airbus SE is a prominent aerospace manufacturer based in Blagnac, Occitanie, France, specializing in the 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 their commitment to meeting the increasing global demand for advanced mission capabilities. Additionally, their acquisition of Vector Aerospace Corp in 2011 for approximately $648 million further solidifies their position in the aerospace and defense sectors. Airbus is dedicated to sustainability and advancing aerospace technology, making them a key player in the industry.


7. Tikehau Capital


Tikehau Capital is an investment management firm based in Paris, specializing in alternative asset management. Founded in 2004, the 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 the aerospace and defence context, Tikehau has been involved in several notable transactions: they provided debt financing to Daher, a key player in the 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 the aerospace and defence industry, reinforcing their relevance as an investor in this sector.


8. Omnes

  • Website: omnescapital.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 8
  • LinkedIn: omnes-capital

Omnes Capital is a private equity firm based in Paris, Île-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 the aerospace and defence sector. Notably, they 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 their strategic interest in the aerospace industry. Their business model emphasizes long-term partnerships to foster growth and sustainability in critical infrastructure projects, which includes their investments in aerospace technologies.


9. Thales

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

Thales Group is a technology company founded in 1979, headquartered in Meudon, Île-De-France, France. With over 10,000 employees, Thales specializes in designing, developing, and manufacturing advanced electrical systems and devices for the aerospace, defense, transportation, and security sectors. The company has been actively involved in the 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 strengthened its position in the European defense and security industry by acquiring Alcatel's 67% stake in satellite manufacturer Alcatel Alenia Space for over $2.1 billion. Other 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: agoranov.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 2000
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 42
  • LinkedIn: agoranov

Agoranov is a startup incubator based in Paris, Île-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 their notable transactions, Agoranov has invested in Preligens, which operates in the 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 their capability to nurture startups in these critical sectors.


11. Bgf

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

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 the UK and Ireland. BGF addresses the funding gap in the market through minority investments and extensive support services. Notably, BGF has made significant investments in the aerospace sector, including a £4 million funding round for Walker Precision Engineering, which is expanding its operations to meet increasing demand in the 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 the aerospace and defence industries.


12. Crédit Mutuel Equity


Crédit Mutuel Equity is a private equity investment firm based in Paris, Île-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 their strategies. Among their notable transactions, they 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 the aerospace sector. Additionally, they have been involved with NSE Group and CRENO, although these companies are less directly related to aerospace and defence. Overall, Crédit Mutuel Equity's diverse investment strategy includes significant players in the aerospace industry, making them a noteworthy investor in this field.


13. European Investment Bank (EIB)


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 the aerospace and defence industry, providing funding to companies that are at the forefront of technological innovation in this field. For instance, EIB granted €10 million to Quantum-Systems GmbH, a leader in small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS), to expand operations and enhance technological capabilities in the 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 the aerospace sector, making it a relevant investor in this industry.


14. Baillie Gifford

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

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, the 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, they have made significant investments in the aerospace and defense sector, including a $1.5 billion investment in Anduril Industries in 2024, which specializes in advanced defense technologies. Additionally, they 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, further underscores their commitment to the aerospace industry. Furthermore, their investment in TEKEVER, a company that develops unmanned aerial systems, highlights their active role in the defense sector.


15. 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 underscore Bayern Kapital's commitment to fostering innovation in the aerospace and defence industry.



Aerospace and Defence Insights: Key Investors in Europe


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Seraphim SpaceLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-50201627
Bpifrance French Tech AccélérationParis, Île-De-France, France1-102015198
European Innovation Council (EIC)Brussels, Brussels, Belgium201-500195857
European Space Agency - ESAParis, Île-De-France, France1001-5000197510
SafranParis, Île-De-France, France10001+20059
AirbusBlagnac, Occitanie, France10001+20036
Tikehau CapitalParis, Île-De-France, France501-100020046
OmnesParis, Île-De-France, France51-20019998
ThalesMeudon, Île-De-France, France10001+19795
AgoranovParis, Île-De-France, France11-50200042
BgfLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200201153
Crédit Mutuel EquityParis, Île-De-France, France51-20019882
European Investment Bank (EIB)Luxembourg1001-5000195899
Baillie GiffordEdinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)1001-5000190813
Bayern KapitalLandshut, Bavaria, Germany11-50199527


Want to find more investors focusing on the aerospace and defence industry?

If you want to find more investors that are active in the aerospace and defenceindustry, you can do that with Inven. We built this list and analysis throughInven's Investor Search, and there are a lot more private equity, venturecapital, and corporate investors like these globally.

With Inven, you'll also get to know:

  • Deal History: Number of deals and their sizes.
  • Portfolio: Companies they've invested in.
  • Contact data: Key dealmakers, including their emails and phonenumbers.
  • ...and much more!