The defense equipment manufacturing industry in the US focuses on producing military technologies, ranging from weapons to aircraft systems and surveillance equipment. Companies in this space, such as Boeing and Lockheed Martin, provide advanced solutions that meet the complex demands of national defense. The sector actively adapts to technological changes, often investing in areas like automation and drone technology. The increasing emphasis on cybersecurity and aerospace advancements indicates a progressive shift, suggesting that the future of this industry relies on both innovation and strategic collaborations with technology startups. Investment in sustainable technologies is also gaining traction, reshaping future operations.


The landscape of defense equipment manufacturing investors features a mix of corporate giants and venture capital firms. With headquarters spanning across locations like Bethesda and San Francisco, these investors vary in size from small teams to significant players boasting over 10,000 employees. Founded across several decades, each firm has shown a keen interest in the industry, with notable transaction counts in 2024; for example, Lockheed Martin made 19 investments. They collectively express a strong commitment to funding innovative solutions within the defense sector.


Top 18 Defense Equipment Manufacturing Investors in the US


1. 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 (an Alumni Ventures Fund) 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 relevant to the defense equipment manufacturing sector, including investments in Ghost Robotics, which specializes in advanced robotic systems, and Teal Drones, known for its innovative drone technology. These investments highlight the fund's engagement with companies that are at the forefront of defense technology, particularly in robotics and aerial systems.


2. 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 based in Bethesda, Maryland, is a prominent corporate investor specializing in defense and aerospace technologies. With over 10,000 employees, Lockheed Martin is a key player in the defense industry, providing advanced solutions to government entities, including the U.S. Department of Defense and foreign governments. The company has made significant acquisitions to bolster its capabilities in defense equipment manufacturing, such as the acquisition of Gyrocam Systems, which develops surveillance systems for the military, and Procerus Technologies, which focuses on unmanned systems. In 2012, Lockheed Martin also acquired CDL Systems, enhancing its expertise in unmanned vehicle technology. More recently, Lockheed Martin Ventures led a seed funding round for Firestorm Labs, a company developing small unmanned aircraft, indicating their ongoing commitment to innovation in defense technologies. These transactions highlight Lockheed Martin's strategic focus on enhancing national security through advanced military solutions.


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 significant investments in various sectors, including software and materials sciences, which are critical for the evolving technological needs of the intelligence community. Among its notable transactions, IQT invested in Hermeus, which raised $100 million in a Series B funding round to develop advanced aircraft, showcasing its commitment to supporting defense-related aerospace innovations. Other investments include SpotterRF and Protonex Technology Corporation, both of which have applications in defense and security technologies. These transactions highlight IQT's role in fostering advancements that are directly applicable to defense equipment manufacturing.


4. Starburst


Starburst is a venture capital firm based in El Segundo, California, founded in 2012. It specializes in the aerospace and defense industry, providing startup acceleration, strategy consulting, and venture investments. Starburst aims to help clients navigate the complex landscape of these sectors, which includes startups, corporations, and government entities. Notable transactions include investments in Ravyn Technology, which raised $400,000 in a seed round, and infiniDome, which also raised an undisclosed amount in a seed round. Additionally, they invested in C4 Systems, a company that is likely involved in defense-related technologies, further emphasizing their focus on the defense equipment manufacturing context. Their portfolio reflects a commitment to fostering innovation in the defense sector.


5. 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. In recent years, Boeing has made several strategic acquisitions to bolster its defense portfolio. Notably, the acquisition of Aurora Flight Sciences in 2017 enhances Boeing's capabilities in autonomous flight technology, which is increasingly relevant in modern defense applications. Additionally, the acquisition of Millennium Space Systems in 2018 allows Boeing to expand its satellite and space capabilities, further supporting military and defense operations. Furthermore, Boeing's planned acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems in 2024, which is expected to close pending regulatory approvals, indicates their ongoing commitment to strengthening their position in the aerospace and defense sectors.


6. The Carlyle Group

  • Website: carlyle.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1987
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 25
  • LinkedIn: the-carlyle-group

The Carlyle Group Inc. is a prominent investment management firm founded in 1987, specializing in private equity, real assets, and private credit. With a global presence and a focus on driving long-term value for its clients, Carlyle serves a diverse range of institutional investors, including pension funds and sovereign wealth funds. Among its notable transactions, Carlyle acquired ManTech in May 2022 for $4.2 billion, a company that provides critical technology solutions to government and defense sectors. Additionally, their earlier investment in QinetiQ, a defense technology firm, highlights their commitment to the defense equipment manufacturing industry. Other acquisitions, such as Vigor Industrial and Forgital Group, showcase Carlyle's broad investment strategy, but their specific engagements in defense-related companies underscore their relevance in this sector.


7. TransDigm Group Inc.

  • Website: transdigm.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1993
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: transdigm-goup-inc-

TransDigm Group Incorporated is a corporate investor based in Cleveland, Ohio, founded in 1993. The company is a leading aerospace manufacturer specializing in engineered aerospace components, serving both commercial and military aircraft manufacturers and operators. TransDigm's disciplined acquisition strategy focuses on proprietary aerospace businesses with significant aftermarket content. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Data Device Corp. for $1 billion, which specializes in high-reliability databus and power controller products for aerospace and defense applications. Additionally, the acquisition of Breeze-Eastern Corporation for $206 million enhances TransDigm's portfolio in military markets. Other relevant acquisitions include Airborne Systems, which designs and manufactures personnel parachutes, and Chelton Limited, further solidifying TransDigm's presence in the defense sector.


8. 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 businesses in sectors such as aerospace, energy, and medical. Ametek has made significant strides in the defense equipment manufacturing context, particularly with its acquisition of Abaco Systems for $1.35 billion in cash, which enhances its offerings in the aerospace and defense sectors. This acquisition is a strategic move to bolster Ametek's capabilities in embedded computing systems, crucial for defense applications. Furthermore, Ametek's acquisition of AMREL Power, which focuses on programmable power sources for testing applications, also supports its position in the automated test equipment market, relevant to defense technologies. Overall, Ametek addresses complex challenges faced by its customers through a diverse range of products and services, including those applicable to defense.


9. 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, founded in 1957 and based in Hollywood, Florida, is a leading aerospace manufacturer that specializes in FAA-approved aircraft replacement parts and repair services. The company serves major airlines and military organizations, providing essential components and solutions that enhance operational efficiency and safety in aviation. Heico's commitment to quality and innovation positions them as a trusted partner in both the aerospace and defense sectors. Notably, Heico has made significant acquisitions to bolster its defense capabilities, including:1. **Blue Aerospace, LLC** - Acquired 80% of the assets and certain liabilities in January 2011, Blue Aerospace is recognized as a leading supplier of military aircraft parts and support services, enhancing Heico's footprint in the defense market.2. **Sensor Systems, Inc.** - Acquired in August 2022, this acquisition further strengthens Heico's electronic technologies division, which is crucial for defense applications.3. **VPT, Inc.** - Acquired in May 2009, VPT specializes in power conversion products for military and aerospace applications, indicating Heico's strategic focus on defense-related technologies.4. **Wencor Group** - Announced in May 2023, this acquisition for $2.05 billion is expected to close in January 2024 and will likely enhance Heico's capabilities in the aerospace and defense sectors.Through these strategic acquisitions, Heico has demonstrated a clear commitment to expanding its role in the defense equipment manufacturing industry.


10. 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 based in Menlo Park, California, founded in 1977. With a focus on investment management and advisory services for startups, NEA specializes in technology and healthcare sectors. The firm emphasizes long-term relationships with entrepreneurs, providing both funding and strategic guidance. NEA has been actively involved in several transactions relevant to the defense equipment manufacturing industry, particularly through its investments in Echodyne, a company that develops advanced radar systems for defense and security applications. 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, showcasing their commitment to supporting innovations in defense technology. Additionally, NEA's investment in other companies like Firestorm and Teal Drones further highlights their engagement in sectors that may contribute to defense capabilities.


11. Lux Capital

  • Website: luxcapital.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2000
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 47
  • LinkedIn: lux-capital

Lux Capital is a venture capital firm founded in 2000, based in New York, New York, that specializes in investing in science and technology companies. They provide venture capital investment and advisory services to startups across various innovative sectors, helping them navigate challenges and achieve growth. Notably, Lux Capital has been actively involved in the defense technology space, particularly through its investments in Anduril Industries, which raised substantial funding amounts in multiple rounds: $200 million in Series C (July 2020), $450 million in Series D (June 2021), and $1.48 billion in Series E (December 2022). These transactions highlight Lux Capital's commitment to supporting companies at the forefront of technological advancements in defense, making them a relevant player in the defense equipment manufacturing industry.


12. Government of Canada

  • Website: canada.ca
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Canada, Kentucky, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 137
  • LinkedIn: government-of-canada

The Government of Canada is a public entity that provides a wide range of services and information to Canadian citizens and residents, addressing various needs including employment, immigration, health care, and taxation. Founded in 1999, it operates through multiple departments and agencies to ensure access to essential services and support for individuals and businesses across the country. In the context of defense equipment manufacturing, the Government of Canada has been involved in several significant transactions, primarily through grants. For instance, it provided a $10 million grant to General Dynamics Mission Systems - Canada in July 2023, which is directly involved in defense technology. Additionally, it supported Maxar Technologies with a $53.7 million grant in April 2018, a company known for its satellite and geospatial services that can be utilized in defense applications. Other transactions include grants to Canadian UAVs and Harwood Custom Composites, indicating a broader strategy to bolster the defense sector in Canada.


13. 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 known for its focus on defense technology, which highlights their engagement in the defense equipment manufacturing sector. Additionally, they have participated in funding rounds for other innovative companies, such as Destinus, which aims to revolutionize air travel with hydrogen-powered supersonic flight, showcasing their commitment to supporting exceptional founders in various technology domains.


14. 8vc

  • Website: 8vc.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Austin, Texas, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 62
  • LinkedIn: 8-partners

8VC is a venture capital firm based in Austin, Texas, founded in 2015. The firm operates a job board connecting innovative companies with talent and investment opportunities, supporting businesses across various sectors, including technology and retail. Notably, 8VC has made substantial investments in Anduril Industries, a defense technology company known for its advanced defense systems. The firm participated in several funding rounds for Anduril, including a $1.48 billion Series E round in December 2022, a $450 million Series D round in June 2021, and earlier rounds totaling millions in Series A through C. This focus on defense technology highlights 8VC's role in supporting the growth of companies within the defense equipment manufacturing sector.


15. General Catalyst


General Catalyst is a venture capital firm founded in 2000, based in San Francisco, California. The firm specializes in early-stage and growth investments, providing capital and strategic guidance to startups across various industries. Notably, General Catalyst has been actively involved in the defense sector, particularly through its investments in Anduril Industries, a defense technology company. They participated in several funding rounds for Anduril, including a $1.48 billion Series E round in December 2022, a $450 million Series D round in June 2021, and earlier rounds totaling $200 million in Series C, $41 million in Series A, and an undisclosed amount in Series B. This track record highlights General Catalyst's engagement in the defense equipment manufacturing space, alongside their broader investment strategy.


16. Founders Fund

  • Website: foundersfund.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 44
  • LinkedIn: the-founders-fund

Founders Fund is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2005. The firm specializes in investing in innovative technology companies across various sectors, including aerospace and software development. Notably, Founders Fund has made substantial investments in Anduril Industries, a defense technology company known for its advanced military systems. The firm participated in several funding rounds for Anduril, including a $1.5 billion Series F round in August 2024, a $1.48 billion Series E round in December 2022, and earlier rounds totaling hundreds of millions. This focus on high-impact investments in the defense sector, alongside its broader technology investment strategy, highlights Founders Fund's role as a significant player in the defense equipment manufacturing landscape.


17. 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 based in New York, founded in 1998. It provides a comprehensive range of services, including investment banking, asset management, and wealth management, catering to a diverse clientele that includes corporations, financial institutions, and individuals. In recent years, Goldman Sachs has been actively involved in the defense equipment manufacturing sector, participating in significant transactions such as the $15.81 billion raised by The Boeing Company in post-IPO debt in October 2024 and the $350 million raised by Embraer in August 2024. Furthermore, their investment in Terran Orbital Corporation, which raised $36 million to expand its manufacturing capabilities, highlights their engagement in the defense industry. These transactions underscore Goldman Sachs' strategic interest in supporting and financing companies within the defense sector.


18. Khosla Ventures

  • Website: khoslaventures.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2004
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 97
  • LinkedIn: khosla-ventures

Khosla Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Menlo Park, California, founded in 2004. The firm provides funding and strategic assistance to startups, particularly in technology, healthcare, and sustainability sectors. Khosla Ventures has been actively involved in various transactions, including significant investments in companies like Hermeus, which is focused on developing advanced aircraft technology. Hermeus has raised substantial funding, including a $100 million Series B round aimed at completing the development of its aircraft and beginning flight operations. This involvement in aerospace technology positions Khosla Ventures as a player in the defense equipment manufacturing context, as advancements in this field can contribute to defense capabilities. Additionally, Khosla Ventures has invested in other innovative companies, showcasing their commitment to supporting cutting-edge technologies.



Defense Equipment Manufacturing Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)51-2002023258
Lockheed MartinBethesda, Maryland, United States (USA)10001+191219
IQT (In-Q-Tel)Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)51-200199924
StarburstEl Segundo, California, United States (USA)51-20020123
BoeingArlington, Virginia, United States (USA)10001+20027
The Carlyle GroupWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)1001-5000198725
TransDigm Group Inc.Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)10001+19932
AmetekBerwyn, Pennsylvania, United States (USA)10001+19301
HeicoHollywood, Florida, United States (USA)1001-500019572
New Enterprise Associates (NEA)Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)51-200197757
Lux CapitalNew York, New York, United States (USA)11-50200047
Government of CanadaCanada, Kentucky, United States (USA)10001+1999137
Liquid 2 VenturesSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)1-10201591
8vcAustin, Texas, United States (USA)11-50201562
General CatalystSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)51-2002000144
Founders FundSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)11-50200544
Goldman SachsNew York, New York, United States (USA)10001+199859
Khosla VenturesMenlo Park, California, United States (USA)51-200200497


Want to find more investors focusing on the defense equipment manufacturing industry?

If you want to find more investors that are active in the defense equipment manufacturingindustry, 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!