The defense electronics industry in the US is pivotal to national security and military readiness. It features a range of companies, from large corporations like Lockheed Martin to innovative startups sowing seeds of disturbance in technology. These firms develop advanced systems, including radar technologies, drone surveillance, secure communications, and electronic warfare applications. There’s a growing emphasis on integrating artificial intelligence and cybersecurity measures, reflecting the increasing threats in modern defense operations. As geopolitical tensions rise, investment in this field is expected to escalate, spurring technological advancements that can redefine military strategies and capabilities.


The investors in this list reflect a mix of venture capital firms and corporate giants, showcasing a variety of approaches to funding defense electronics. With headquarters spanning locations like San Francisco and Arlington, these investors range in size from small startups to organizations with over 10,000 employees. Founded from 1912 to 2015, they participated in a total of 565 deals in 2024 alone. Notably, corporate entities like Lockheed Martin and Boeing focus on acquisitions while venture capitalists seek to back emerging technology, creating a dynamic investment ecosystem in defense electronics.


Top 15 Defense Electronics Investors in the US


1. Intel Capital

  • Website: intelcapital.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Santa Clara, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1991
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 23
  • LinkedIn: intelcapital

Intel Capital is a venture capital firm based in Santa Clara, California, founded in 1991. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies, with a focus on areas such as AI, cloud computing, and semiconductor technologies. Intel Capital provides funding, strategic support, and access to Intel's extensive resources to help startups scale and innovate within the tech ecosystem. Notably, Intel Capital has participated in several transactions that align with defense electronics, including an investment in Delair, a leading supplier of commercial drone solutions, which has significant implications for defense applications. Additionally, their involvement in 3D Glass Solutions, which focuses on high-volume production of advanced electronic components, further highlights their engagement in sectors relevant to defense electronics. Through these investments, Intel Capital demonstrates a commitment to supporting technologies that can enhance capabilities in the defense sector.


2. Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)

  • Website: av.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2023
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 258
  • LinkedIn: deep-tech-fund-av-focused-fund

The Deep Tech Fund, part of Alumni Ventures, is a venture capital firm based in Manchester, New Hampshire, founded in 2023. It provides accredited investors and institutions with access to professionally-managed, diversified venture portfolios, leveraging a network of over 10,000 investors to connect them with high-quality investment opportunities in the startup ecosystem. The fund has been involved in several notable transactions in the defense technology sector, including a $12 million seed round investment in Picogrid, which focuses on defense technology and aims to accelerate product development and partnerships within the defense sector. Additionally, the fund has invested in Ghost Robotics, which raised $450,000 in a seed round, and Teal Drones, which has received multiple rounds of funding, indicating a commitment to supporting innovative companies in the defense electronics space.


3. IQT (In-Q-Tel)

  • Website: iqt.org
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 24
  • LinkedIn: in-q-tel

In-Q-Tel (IQT) is a not-for-profit venture capital firm founded in 1999 and based in Arlington, Virginia. It partners with various government agencies to identify and support innovative technology startups that can enhance U.S. national security. IQT has made numerous investments in areas such as software, materials sciences, and advanced technologies that address the evolving needs of the intelligence community. Notable transactions include investments in SpotterRF, which specializes in radar technology for surveillance, and Protonex Technology Corporation, known for its power management solutions. Additionally, their participation in the $100 million Series B funding round for Hermeus, a company developing advanced aircraft, highlights their commitment to supporting technologies that have significant implications for defense and national security. Overall, IQT's investment strategy is closely aligned with the defense electronics sector, making them a key player in this field.


4. Lockheed Martin

  • Website: lockheedmartin.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Bethesda, Maryland, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1912
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 19
  • LinkedIn: lockheed-martin

Lockheed Martin Corporation, founded in 1912 and headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, is a prominent defense contractor specializing in aerospace and military technologies. The company is known for providing advanced solutions to government entities, including the U.S. Department of Defense and foreign governments, with a focus on enhancing national security through innovative products such as the F-35 fighter jet and various missile systems. Lockheed Martin has made several strategic acquisitions to bolster its capabilities in defense electronics, including the acquisition of Procerus Technologies, which specializes in unmanned systems, and Gyrocam Systems, known for its gyrostabilized optical surveillance systems for military applications. In 2023, Lockheed Martin Ventures participated in a funding round for Fortem Technologies, a company focused on drone technology, further emphasizing their commitment to advancing defense electronics. These transactions highlight Lockheed Martin's active role in the defense electronics industry, making them a significant player in this sector.


5. Starburst


Starburst is a venture capital firm based in El Segundo, California, founded in 2012. The firm specializes in the aerospace and defense industry, providing consulting services, startup acceleration, and venture investments to help clients innovate and navigate the complexities of these sectors. Starburst's clientele includes startups, corporations, and government entities looking to enhance their technological capabilities and secure funding. Notable transactions include investments in companies such as infiniDome, which focuses on secure GPS technology, and Ravyn Technology, which is involved in advanced communication systems. These investments highlight Starburst's commitment to fostering innovation in the defense electronics space, making them a significant player in this industry.


6. United States Department of Defense

  • Website: defense.gov
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1949
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 53
  • LinkedIn: deptofdefense

The United States Department of Defense (DoD) is a public entity responsible for national security and military operations, founded in 1949 and based in Washington, D.C. With over 10,000 employees, the DoD plays a critical role in providing military forces and services to ensure the safety of the nation. In 2024, the DoD was involved in 53 investments, primarily in the form of grants to various defense technology companies. Notable transactions include a $72 million grant to Northrop Grumman, a $14.3 million grant to Anduril Industries, and a $20 million grant to Quantum Systems. Additionally, the DoD provided $15 million to Coherent Corp. to support the commercialization of advanced semiconductor technologies under the CHIPS Act. These transactions highlight the DoD's focus on fostering innovation in defense electronics and related technologies, making it a significant player in the defense electronics sector.


7. Plug and Play Tech Center


Plug and Play Tech Center is an innovation hub and venture capital firm based in Sunnyvale, California, founded in 2006. The firm connects startups with corporations to foster growth and innovation, offering various programs including accelerator initiatives and investment opportunities. With a focus on technology, Plug and Play has been involved in several transactions that align with defense electronics, such as their investment in GuardKnox, an Israel-based in-vehicle cybersecurity technology developer, which raised $21 million in a Series A round. This investment highlights their interest in cybersecurity, a critical component of defense electronics. Additionally, their participation in funding rounds for companies like Ottopia and BlueSpace.ai, which are involved in autonomous driving and safety technologies, further demonstrates their engagement in sectors that could have defense applications. Overall, Plug and Play Tech Center's diverse investment portfolio includes companies that are relevant to the defense electronics industry, showcasing their potential as a valuable investor in this space.


8. New Enterprise Associates (NEA)

  • Website: nea.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1977
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 57
  • LinkedIn: new-enterprise-associates

New Enterprise Associates (NEA) is a prominent venture capital firm founded in 1977, based in Menlo Park, California. NEA specializes in investment management and advisory services for startups, particularly in the technology and healthcare sectors. The firm partners with entrepreneurs to provide funding and strategic guidance, helping them navigate the challenges of building successful businesses. NEA operates through a collaborative approach, emphasizing long-term relationships with founders. Notably, NEA has been involved in several key transactions in the defense electronics space, particularly with Echodyne, a company focused on advanced radar technology. NEA led a $29 million Series B funding round for Echodyne in 2017, participated in a $20 million Series C round in 2019, and co-led a $135 million Series C round in 2022. These investments highlight NEA's engagement in the defense electronics sector, particularly in supporting technologies that enhance security and defense capabilities.


9. Liquid 2 Ventures

  • Website: liquid2.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 91
  • LinkedIn: liquid-2-ventures

Liquid 2 Ventures is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in investing in technology startups at the pre-seed and seed stages, as well as growth-stage companies. They provide capital, mentorship, and access to a vast network of industry insiders to help founders navigate their entrepreneurial journeys. Notably, Liquid 2 Ventures has invested in Anduril Industries, a company that develops advanced defense technologies, indicating their engagement in the defense sector. Additionally, they have participated in funding rounds for various innovative companies, including Destinus, which focuses on hydrogen-powered supersonic flight, and Salient Motion, showcasing their diverse investment strategy while still maintaining a foothold in defense-related technologies.


10. Boeing

  • Website: boeing.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2002
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 7
  • LinkedIn: boeing

The Boeing Company, founded in 2002 and headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, is a leading aerospace manufacturer that designs, manufactures, and sells a wide range of products including airplanes, rotorcraft, rockets, and satellites. Boeing serves commercial airlines, government agencies, and military organizations, providing innovative solutions to ensure safe and efficient air travel and defense capabilities. Notably, Boeing has made several strategic acquisitions to bolster its position in the defense electronics sector. For instance, the acquisition of Tapestry Solutions in 2008, which specializes in logistics and equipment tracking for the U.S. Department of Defense, highlights Boeing's commitment to enhancing its defense services. Additionally, the acquisition of Millennium Space Systems in 2018, a company focused on small-satellite solutions, and Liquid Robotics, known for its autonomous maritime systems, further illustrate Boeing's investment in advanced technologies that support defense operations. These transactions reflect Boeing's strategy to integrate cutting-edge technology into its defense offerings, making it a relevant investor in the defense electronics industry.


11. Motorola Solutions


Motorola Solutions, Inc. is a telecommunications equipment and software provider based in Chicago, Illinois, specializing in critical communications and video security solutions. Founded in 1928, the company serves public safety agencies and enterprises with products such as two-way radios, body cameras, and cybersecurity services. In 2024, Motorola Solutions acquired Silent Sentinel, a company known for its long-range cameras designed for extreme environments, positioning them as a leader in advanced surveillance technology. Additionally, their acquisition of Airbus DS Communications enhances their 911 portfolio, particularly the VESTA platform, which is crucial for emergency response systems. These transactions reflect Motorola's commitment to expanding its capabilities in areas that intersect with defense electronics, making them a significant player in this sector.


12. Qualcomm Ventures

  • Website: qualcommventures.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2000
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 18
  • LinkedIn: qualcomm-ventures

Qualcomm Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2000 and based in San Diego, California. The firm specializes in investing in early to growth stage technology companies, particularly within the wireless ecosystem. They provide capital and strategic support to startups across various sectors, including automotive, digital health, and IoT. Notably, Qualcomm Ventures has participated in funding rounds for defense-related companies such as Tonbo Imaging, which focuses on advanced imaging solutions for defense applications, and ideaForge, India's largest drone manufacturer, which plays a significant role in defense and surveillance technologies. These investments highlight Qualcomm Ventures' engagement in the defense electronics sector, alongside their broader technology investment strategy.


13. Goldman Sachs

  • Website: goldmansachs.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1998
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 59
  • LinkedIn: goldman-sachs

Goldman Sachs is a prominent investment bank and financial services firm founded in 1998, headquartered in New York, New York. The firm provides a wide range of services including investment banking, asset management, and wealth management, catering to a diverse clientele that includes corporations, financial institutions, and individuals. In the context of defense electronics, Goldman Sachs has been involved in several notable transactions. For instance, they participated in a Series B funding round for Terran Orbital, which raised $36 million to expand its manufacturing capabilities in the aerospace and defense sector. Additionally, they facilitated a significant debt raise for The Boeing Company, which is heavily involved in defense contracting. These transactions highlight Goldman Sachs' active role in the defense electronics industry, alongside their broader investment activities.


14. Ametek

  • Website: ametek.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Berwyn, Pennsylvania, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1930
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: ametek

AMETEK, Inc. is a manufacturer specializing in electronic instruments and electromechanical devices, founded in 1930 and based in Berwyn, Pennsylvania. The company provides advanced analytical and measurement solutions to various sectors, including aerospace, energy, and medical. Ametek has made significant strides in the defense electronics space, notably through its acquisition of Abaco Systems for $1.35 billion in cash, which enhances its offerings in the aerospace and defense sectors. This acquisition reflects Ametek's commitment to addressing complex challenges in defense applications. Additionally, Ametek has acquired AMREL Power, a provider of dc power supplies and electronic loads, which strengthens its position in the automated test equipment market, relevant for defense electronics testing. These strategic acquisitions demonstrate Ametek's focus on innovation and operational excellence in the defense electronics industry.


15. Heico

  • Website: heico.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Hollywood, Florida, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1957
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: heico-aerospace

HEICO Corporation is a leading aerospace manufacturer based in Hollywood, Florida, specializing in FAA-approved aircraft replacement parts and repair services. Founded in 1957, the company serves major airlines and military organizations, enhancing operational efficiency and safety in aviation. Heico's Electronic Technologies Group has made significant strides in the defense electronics sector through strategic acquisitions. Notable transactions include the acquisition of VPT, Inc., which specializes in power conversion solutions for military applications, and Sensor Systems, Inc., known for its advanced sensor technologies. Other relevant acquisitions include Midwest Microwave Solutions and Pyramid Semiconductor LLC, both of which contribute to Heico's capabilities in electronic systems and components. These transactions highlight Heico's commitment to being a trusted partner in the aerospace and defense sectors, particularly in defense electronics.



Defense Electronics Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Intel CapitalSanta Clara, California, United States (USA)11-50199123
Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)51-2002023258
IQT (In-Q-Tel)Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)51-200199924
Lockheed MartinBethesda, Maryland, United States (USA)10001+191219
StarburstEl Segundo, California, United States (USA)51-20020123
United States Department of DefenseWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)10001+194953
Plug and Play Tech CenterSunnyvale, California, United States (USA)501-10002006253
New Enterprise Associates (NEA)Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)51-200197757
Liquid 2 VenturesSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)1-10201591
BoeingArlington, Virginia, United States (USA)10001+20027
Motorola SolutionsChicago, Illinois, United States (USA)10001+19283
Qualcomm VenturesSan Diego, California, United States (USA)10001+200018
Goldman SachsNew York, New York, United States (USA)10001+199859
AmetekBerwyn, Pennsylvania, United States (USA)10001+19301
HeicoHollywood, Florida, United States (USA)1001-500019572


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