The defense electronics industry in Europe plays a vital role in enhancing national security and technological advancements. It includes companies that specialize in communication systems, surveillance technologies, radar systems, and electronic warfare. As threats evolve, advancements in artificial intelligence and cyber defense are becoming increasingly significant. Companies thrive on innovation, ensuring their products meet the demands of modern warfare. With nations ramping up defense budgets, the market shows growth potential, with new startups and established firms alike focusing on cutting-edge solutions to stay competitive.


This list highlights 16 notable investors in the defense electronics space, with varying types such as venture capital and corporate entities. Headquartered across key locations in France, the UK, and Italy, these firms range in size from small operational teams to large institutions. Founded between 1988 and 2015, these investors cumulatively made a significant impact in 2024 with various investments across the industry. From government-backed organizations to technology-focused venture capitalists, each player brings a unique strategy, marking an exciting period for growth and innovation in defense electronics.


Top 16 Defense Electronics Investors in Europe


1. Accenture

  • Website: accenture.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
  • Founded year: 2001
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 51
  • LinkedIn: accenture

Accenture is a global consulting firm based in Dublin, Ireland, specializing in information technology and management consulting services. Founded in 2001, the company has grown to employ over 10,000 professionals and operates across various industries, providing solutions that help businesses innovate and improve efficiency. Notably, Accenture has made significant strides in the defense sector, particularly through its acquisition of ASM Research in 2013, which enhances its capabilities in military health services. This acquisition allows Accenture to serve U.S. defense and federal health clients more effectively. Additionally, Accenture's recent acquisition of BCT Solutions in 2019 and 6point6 in 2023 further demonstrates its commitment to expanding its technological and consulting services, which may include applications relevant to defense electronics. Overall, Accenture's strategic investments in companies that cater to defense needs position it as a relevant investor in the defense electronics industry.


2. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération


Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a public entity and financial institution based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2015. It supports entrepreneurs and businesses in France and internationally through a range of services including direct funding, export credit insurance, and private equity investments. Bpifrance aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation through coaching and partnerships, helping businesses navigate growth and international expansion. Notably, Bpifrance has been involved in several transactions relevant to the defense electronics sector, such as its investment in Preligens, a SAAS developer specializing in geospatial analytics, which has applications in defense. Additionally, Bpifrance participated in the funding round for SCALINX, a semiconductor company, which is crucial for the development of defense electronics. These transactions highlight Bpifrance's engagement in sectors that intersect with defense technology.


3. European Investment Bank (EIB)


The European Investment Bank (EIB) is a public entity based in Luxembourg, established in 1958, that provides a range of financial services including loans, equity investments, guarantees, and advisory services aimed at supporting sustainable projects across various sectors. In 2021, EIB provided €10 million in funding to Quantum-Systems GmbH, a leader in small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS), to enhance operations and meet the demand for technological innovation in the professional UAS mapping and surveillance industry. This investment highlights EIB's engagement in sectors that intersect with defense technologies. Additionally, EIB has been involved in venture debt financing agreements with companies like GomSpace and Spire Global, which focus on satellite technology and applications that can have dual-use capabilities, including defense. These transactions illustrate EIB's role in supporting innovative technologies that may contribute to defense electronics, despite its broader mandate for sustainable development.


4. 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 based in Meudon, Île-De-France, France, specializing in designing, developing, and manufacturing advanced electrical systems and devices for various sectors, including aerospace, defense, transportation, and security. Founded in 1979, Thales has grown to employ over 10,000 people and has made significant investments in the defense electronics industry. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Cobham Aerospace Communications in April 2024, which enhances its capabilities in aerospace communications, and the acquisition of Digital Receiver Technology in October 2024, a company that produces surveillance equipment for the U.S. military. Additionally, Thales acquired THALES RAYTHEON Systems in July 2016, further solidifying its position in the defense sector. These strategic acquisitions demonstrate Thales's commitment to advancing its technology offerings in defense electronics and serving a diverse clientele that includes both government and commercial enterprises.


5. Parkwalk Advisors


Parkwalk Advisors is a London-based investment management firm founded in 2009, specializing in venture capital investments in university spin-outs and innovative technologies. They manage various EIS funds aimed at providing capital appreciation and tax reliefs for investors. Their focus is on high-growth companies in sectors such as AI, life sciences, and cleantech. Notably, Parkwalk has been involved in several funding rounds for Symetrica, a UK-based company that develops radiation detection and identification technologies, which are critical in defense contexts. In 2019, they co-led a funding round that raised £3m for Symetrica, contributing to a total of £10m raised by the company. This investment supports Symetrica's expansion into the US market, highlighting Parkwalk's engagement with technologies that have defense applications.


6. 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 Paris-based aerospace manufacturer and defense contractor, founded in 2005, with a workforce exceeding 10,000 employees. The company specializes in aircraft equipment, propulsion systems, and defense technologies, serving a diverse clientele that includes both aircraft manufacturers and military organizations. Safran's commitment to innovation is evident in its recent transactions, such as the acquisition of CILAS, a subsidiary focused on laser technologies, which enhances their capabilities in defense electronics. Additionally, the acquisition of Preligens, a company specializing in AI and data analysis for defense applications, further demonstrates Safran's strategic focus on integrating advanced technologies into their defense offerings. Their acquisition of Zodiac Aerospace also reflects their broader strategy to enhance operational efficiency and safety in both aviation and defense sectors, positioning them as a key player in the defense electronics industry.


7. 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 across various sectors, including renewable energy and sustainable cities. Omnes emphasizes long-term partnerships to foster growth and sustainability in critical infrastructure projects. Notably, they have participated in significant funding rounds for companies in the defense electronics sector, such as Quantum Systems, a leader in AI-powered drone robotics, which raised substantial funds in Series B and C rounds. Additionally, their investment in Elistair, which focuses on national security and defense products, further highlights their engagement in the defense electronics industry. These transactions illustrate Omnes Capital's strategic interest in supporting innovative technologies that contribute to defense and security.


8. Boundary Holding


Boundary Holding is a Luxembourg-based venture capital firm founded in 2016, specializing in deep tech investments that drive the 4th industrial revolution. They provide funding and strategic support to startups primarily in the AI and technology sectors. Notably, Boundary Holding has invested in several companies relevant to the defense electronics field, including CerbAir, a French defense and security company that raised €5.5 million to enhance its anti-drone solutions. Other investments include Elistair and infiniDome, which also operate in technology sectors that can intersect with defense applications. Their focus on innovative technologies positions them as a significant player in the evolving landscape of defense electronics.


9. Future Planet Capital


Future Planet Capital is a venture capital firm based in London, England, founded in 2015. They manage over $400 million in assets and focus on impact-led investments that align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Their portfolio includes innovative companies addressing global challenges across various sectors. Notably, Future Planet Capital has invested in Helix Geospace, which is developing advanced antennas and electronic systems aimed at defending against vulnerabilities in positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) services, a critical area in defense electronics. Additionally, they have made investments in companies like Qdot Technology and Oxford Space Systems, which, while not exclusively focused on defense, contribute to technological advancements that can have implications in the defense sector.


10. 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 serves a diverse clientele, including institutional and private investors, as well as SMEs seeking tailored financing solutions to support growth and sustainability initiatives. Among their notable transactions, Tikehau Capital has invested in ProvenRun, a French startup that raised €15 million in a Series A funding round, with the investment being facilitated through a partnership with the French Ministry of Defence’s Definvest fund. This investment aims to accelerate ProvenRun's product roadmap and expand its presence in North America, showcasing Tikehau's commitment to the defense electronics sector. Additionally, their involvement with companies like Nexteam Group, which operates in precision mechanics, further emphasizes their relevance in industries that support defense technologies.


11. Innovacom

  • Website: innovacom.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1988
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 10
  • LinkedIn: innovacom

Innovacom is a venture capital firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 1988. The firm specializes in supporting startups through investment and strategic advisory services, focusing on financing innovative projects in technology and industry. Innovacom has been involved in several funding rounds for Cailabs, a French startup specializing in photonics technology. Notably, they participated in multiple funding rounds for Cailabs, including a Series C round that raised €26 million, which was aimed at expanding the company's laser communications and optical ground station business. Their involvement in Cailabs, which has applications in telecommunications and potentially in defense electronics, highlights Innovacom's interest in technology that intersects with defense applications, even if their primary focus is broader than just defense electronics.


12. IQ Capital

  • Website: iqcapital.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 12
  • LinkedIn: iq-capital-partners

IQ Capital is a London-based venture capital firm founded in 2005, specializing in deep tech investments. The firm provides financial backing and strategic support to innovative tech startups, particularly in sectors such as AI, robotics, and cyber security. In 2023, IQ Capital led a funding round for QuadSAT, a Danish startup that focuses on satellite technology, which could have applications in defense communications. They also invested in Imandra, a company that leverages AI for complex problem-solving, which can be relevant in defense scenarios. Their portfolio includes various tech startups, indicating a broad interest in technologies that may intersect with defense applications.


13. Swisscom Ventures


Swisscom Ventures is a Zurich-based venture capital firm founded in 2007, specializing in investments in high-potential technology startups. The firm provides financial support and strategic advisory services, helping startups access technical infrastructure and market channels. Swisscom Ventures operates across various technology sectors, including AI and Fintech, but has also made significant investments in companies relevant to the defense electronics industry. For instance, their investment in SWISSto12, which raised CHF18.1M in Series B funding, focuses on telecommunications components for the satellite and aerospace industries, highlighting their engagement in sectors that intersect with defense technologies. Additionally, their participation in funding rounds for companies like Kumu Networks and Insightness showcases their commitment to innovative technologies that could have applications in defense and security.


14. Supernova Invest

  • Website: supernovainvest.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 2017
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 12
  • LinkedIn: supernova-invest

Supernova Invest is a venture capital firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2017. The firm specializes in deeptech investments, supporting startups across various sectors, including healthcare, cleantech, and digital technologies. Supernova Invest emphasizes ESG principles and innovation, providing funding and strategic guidance to help entrepreneurs scale their businesses. Among their notable transactions, Supernova led a Series B funding round for Cailabs, a photonics startup that received backing from the French Armed Forces Ministry, highlighting their engagement with defense-related technologies. Additionally, they participated in funding rounds for companies like Cambridge Mechatronics, which, while not directly defense-focused, operates in advanced technology sectors that could intersect with defense applications. This diverse investment strategy showcases Supernova Invest's commitment to innovation while maintaining a potential relevance to the defense electronics industry.


15. 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 leading 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 Helicopters acquired Aerovel, which includes the unmanned aerial system Flexrotor, to bolster its UAS portfolio and meet the growing demand for advanced mission capabilities. This acquisition aligns with their strategy to enhance their defense electronics offerings. Additionally, Airbus has been involved in various military contracts, such as the acquisition of helicopters by the Angolan Air Force from AgustaWestland, showcasing their active role in the defense sector. Airbus is committed to sustainability and advancing aerospace technology, making them a relevant investor in the defense electronics industry.


16. Crowdcube

  • Website: crowdcube.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: crowdcube-limited

Crowdcube is a London-based crowdfunding platform founded in 2010 that enables businesses to raise capital through equity investments. It connects startups and SMEs with potential investors, facilitating the funding process while promoting diversity and inclusion within its workforce. In recent years, Crowdcube has been involved in several transactions relevant to the defense electronics industry, notably with Advanced Blast & Ballistic Systems, which raised significant amounts through equity crowdfunding in 2021, 2022, and 2023. These transactions highlight Crowdcube's role in supporting companies that develop technologies pertinent to defense and security, thereby positioning it as a player in the defense electronics investment landscape.



Defense Electronics Insights: Key Investors in Europe


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
AccentureDublin, Dublin, Ireland10001+200151
Bpifrance French Tech AccélérationParis, Île-De-France, France1-102015198
European Investment Bank (EIB)Luxembourg1001-5000195899
ThalesMeudon, Île-De-France, France10001+19795
Parkwalk AdvisorsLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-50200917
SafranParis, Île-De-France, France10001+20059
OmnesParis, Île-De-France, France51-20019998
Boundary HoldingLuxembourg11-5020160
Future Planet CapitalLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-5020157
Tikehau CapitalParis, Île-De-France, France501-100020046
InnovacomParis, Île-De-France, France1-10198810
IQ CapitalLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-50200512
Swisscom VenturesZurich, Zurich, Switzerland11-5020074
Supernova InvestParis, Île-De-France, France11-50201712
AirbusBlagnac, Occitanie, France10001+20036
CrowdcubeLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-20020103


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