The military aircraft manufacturing industry in the US is pivotal for national defense, bringing together companies that design and produce advanced aircraft for military purposes. This includes everything from fighter jets to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), emphasizing technology without sacrificing safety. Players range from large corporations like Boeing and Lockheed Martin to specialized startups exploring innovative solutions. The industry is poised for growth, driven by demands for modernization and increased military budgets. Notably, advancements in technology, such as autonomy and artificial intelligence, are reshaping how aircraft are developed, pointing to a more flexible future in military air logistics.


The investors listed are a mix of corporate giants, venture capitalists, and private equity firms all focused on military aircraft manufacturing. They hail from strategic locations like Bethesda and Arlington, reflecting close ties to both industry and government. With investment sizes ranging from small startups to large-scale acquisitions, these firms made significant moves in 2024, tallying over 30 fruitful deals among them. Founded between 1930 and 2016, they represent a range of experience, with several playing crucial roles in cutting-edge military technology advancements.


Top 19 Military Aircraft Manufacturing Investors in the US


1. 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 defense contractor specializing in aerospace and military technologies. The company provides 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. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Gyrocam Systems, which develops gyrostabilized optical surveillance systems for the U.S. military, and Procerus Technologies, which contributes to unmanned systems. In 2024, Lockheed Martin Ventures led a seed funding round for Firestorm Labs, a company developing small unmanned aircraft, indicating its active role in fostering innovation in military aviation. Additionally, the acquisition of CDL Systems, a software company specializing in unmanned technology, aligns with Lockheed Martin's strategy to enhance its capabilities in unmanned vehicle systems. These transactions highlight Lockheed Martin's significant involvement in the military aircraft manufacturing sector.


2. Starburst


Starburst is a consulting firm founded in 2012, located in El Segundo, California, specializing in the aerospace and defense industry. They provide startup acceleration, strategy consulting, and venture investments to help clients innovate within these sectors. Starburst's clientele includes startups, corporations, and government entities looking to enhance their technological capabilities. Notable transactions include investments in companies like Exosonic, which focuses on supersonic flight technology, and Ravyn Technology, which may have applications in defense. Their involvement in funding rounds for innovative aerospace startups positions them as a key player in the military aircraft manufacturing context, as these technologies often intersect with military applications.


3. 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 position in the aerospace sector. Notably, the acquisition of Aurora Flight Sciences in 2017 enhances Boeing's capabilities in autonomous flight technology, which is crucial for modern military applications. Additionally, the recent acquisition of De Havilland Canada for US$130 million in 2024 aims to modernize manufacturing facilities and ensure the continuation of product lines, which may include military applications. These transactions reflect Boeing's commitment to maintaining a strong presence in the military aircraft manufacturing industry while also expanding its commercial aviation portfolio.


4. 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 established in 1949, responsible for national security and military operations. It provides military forces and services to deter war and ensure the safety of the nation. The DoD serves government entities and allied nations, focusing on military readiness and disaster response efforts. In 2024, the DoD was involved in 53 investments, primarily through grants to various defense contractors. Notable transactions include a $72 million grant to Northrop Grumman, a key player in military aircraft manufacturing, and a $14.3 million grant to Anduril Industries, which develops advanced defense technologies. Other relevant transactions include grants to Vantage Robotics and Quantum Systems, both of which are involved in defense-related technologies. These activities highlight the DoD's commitment to advancing military capabilities, including aircraft manufacturing.


5. 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 Cleveland, Ohio-based aerospace manufacturer founded in 1993, specializing in engineered aerospace components. The company serves both commercial and military aircraft manufacturers and operators, providing critical components that ensure the safety and reliability of aircraft operations. TransDigm operates through a disciplined acquisition strategy, focusing on proprietary aerospace businesses with significant aftermarket content. Notable transactions include the acquisition of DART Aerospace, a leading provider of helicopter mission equipment solutions, for approximately $360 million in 2022, and Airborne Systems, which specializes in designing and manufacturing personnel parachutes, acquired for about $250 million in 2013. These acquisitions highlight TransDigm's commitment to enhancing its portfolio in the military aerospace sector, further solidifying its role as a key player in military aircraft manufacturing.


6. 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, based in Arlington, Virginia. It focuses on investing in technology startups that can enhance U.S. national security. IQT partners with various government agencies to identify and support innovative solutions in technology sectors, including software and materials sciences. Notably, IQT participated in a $100 million Series B funding round for Hermeus, a company developing advanced aircraft technology, which includes the Quarterhorse and Darkhorse aircraft. This investment highlights IQT's commitment to supporting advancements in military aircraft manufacturing. Additionally, IQT has been involved in various other technology investments, but its engagement with Hermeus is particularly relevant to the military aircraft sector.


7. 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 involvement in the defense sector. Additionally, they have invested in Destinus, a startup focused on hydrogen-powered supersonic flight, which could have implications for military aviation. Their investment in Skyways, which raised funds for drone technology, also suggests an interest in aerospace innovations. Overall, while they have made some relevant investments, their primary focus remains on technology startups rather than exclusively on military aircraft manufacturing.


8. 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 specializing in FAA-approved aircraft replacement parts and repair services. Founded in 1957 and based in Hollywood, Florida, HEICO serves major airlines and military organizations, providing essential components and solutions to enhance operational efficiency and safety in aviation. Notably, HEICO has made significant acquisitions that bolster its position in the military aircraft sector, including the acquisition of 80% of Blue Aerospace, LLC, a prominent supplier of military aircraft parts and support services, in 2011. More recently, HEICO announced the acquisition of Wencor Group for $2.05 billion, which is expected to further expand its capabilities in the aerospace and defense markets. Additionally, their acquisition of Sensor Systems, Inc. and VPT, Inc. through their Electronic Technologies Group demonstrates their strategic focus on enhancing their offerings in the military domain. These transactions underscore HEICO's commitment to being a trusted partner in the aerospace and defense sectors.


9. 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 providing tailored investment solutions to institutional investors, Carlyle has built a reputation for driving long-term value. Among its notable transactions, Carlyle invested in the Nordam Group, an aerospace repair and manufacturing company, to help it exit Chapter 11 bankruptcy, highlighting its commitment to the aerospace sector. Additionally, Carlyle's acquisition of companies like Vigor Industrial and its involvement with QinetiQ, a defense technology company, further demonstrate its engagement in industries related to military applications. These transactions reflect Carlyle's strategic interest in sectors that intersect with military aircraft manufacturing.


10. 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 based in New York, specializing in investing in science and technology companies. Founded in 2000, the firm provides venture capital investment and advisory services to startups across various innovative sectors. Lux Capital is particularly focused on supporting companies at the forefront of technological advancements. Notably, they have been involved in significant funding rounds for Anduril Industries, a defense technology company that raised $1.48 billion in Series E funding in December 2022, and previously raised $450 million in Series D funding in June 2021, among other rounds. These investments highlight Lux Capital's commitment to advancing technologies that are relevant to the defense sector, including military aircraft manufacturing. Additionally, they have invested in Performance Drone Works, which further emphasizes their interest in drone technology, a critical component of modern military aviation.


11. 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 aerospace and defense markets through strategic acquisitions. Notably, they acquired Muirhead Aerospace Limited, a UK-based manufacturer of motion technology products and avionics repair services, enhancing their capabilities in the aerospace sector. Additionally, Ametek acquired B&S Aircraft, Aero Components International Corp., and Southern Aeroparts Inc., all of which contribute to their aerospace aftermarket capabilities. These transactions demonstrate Ametek's commitment to expanding its footprint in the military aircraft manufacturing industry, making it a relevant investor in this space.


12. 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 across various industries, including technology and healthcare. Notably, General Catalyst has been actively involved in funding Anduril Industries, a defense technology company that raised substantial amounts in multiple funding rounds, including $1.48 billion in Series E and $450 million in Series D. These investments highlight General Catalyst's commitment to supporting innovative companies in the defense sector, particularly those developing technologies that could be applicable to military aircraft manufacturing.


13. Airbus Ventures

  • Website: airbusventures.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2016
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 8
  • LinkedIn: airbus-ventures

Airbus Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2016, based in Menlo Park, California. The firm specializes in investing in deep tech startups, particularly in sectors such as aerospace, autonomous mobility, and advanced materials. Airbus Ventures aims to provide capital and strategic support to entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the challenges of bringing innovative technologies to market. Notably, they have participated in funding rounds for companies like Quantum Systems, a leader in AI-powered drone robotics, which raised significant capital in Series B and Series C rounds, indicating a strong interest in technologies that could be applied in military contexts. Other investments include Venus Aerospace and Isar Aerospace, both of which are involved in aerospace innovations that could have military applications. Through these investments, Airbus Ventures leverages its expertise to foster growth in the technology sector, including areas that intersect with military aircraft manufacturing.


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 significant investments in Anduril Industries, a defense technology company that specializes in developing advanced military systems. 8VC participated in multiple funding rounds for Anduril, including a Series E round that raised $1.48 billion in December 2022, a Series D round of $450 million in June 2021, and earlier rounds totaling $200 million in Series C, $41 million in Series A, and an undisclosed amount in Series B. These transactions highlight 8VC's commitment to investing in companies that are directly involved in defense and military technologies, making it a relevant player in the military aircraft manufacturing space.


15. 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. Founders Fund provides funding and strategic support to startups, helping them grow and scale their operations. Their portfolio includes notable companies like SpaceX and Palantir, indicating a focus on high-impact investments. In the military aircraft manufacturing context, Founders Fund has participated in significant funding rounds for Hermeus, which is developing advanced military aircraft, and Anduril Industries, a defense technology company that has raised substantial capital to enhance its capabilities in defense and military applications. These investments highlight Founders Fund's commitment to supporting companies that are pivotal in the aerospace and defense sectors.


16. 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 offers 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 2024, Goldman Sachs was involved in several notable transactions relevant to the military aircraft manufacturing industry. They facilitated a significant debt raise of $15.81 billion for The Boeing Company on October 14, 2024, which is a key manufacturer of military aircraft. Additionally, they participated in a $350 million post-IPO debt raise for Embraer on August 6, 2024, a company known for its military aircraft production. Furthermore, Goldman Sachs was part of a Series B funding round for Terran Orbital Corporation, which raised $36 million to expand its manufacturing capabilities, indicating their active role in supporting companies within the aerospace and defense sectors. These transactions highlight Goldman Sachs' engagement with military aircraft manufacturing, reinforcing their relevance in this category.


17. United States Air Force

  • Website: airforce.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Randolph Air Force Base, Texas, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1947
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: united-states-air-force

The United States Air Force (USAF) is a military organization founded in 1947, based at Randolph Air Force Base in Texas. It plays a crucial role in national defense by providing air defense and security services. The USAF is not only a military force but also an investor in innovative technologies that enhance its operational capabilities. In recent years, the Air Force has engaged in several significant transactions within the military aircraft manufacturing context. For instance, it provided a grant of $23 million to Lockheed Martin in 2009, $31.8 million to Kratos Defense and Security Solutions in 2019, and $60 million to Hermeus Corporation in 2021, which is developing reusable hypersonic aircraft. Additionally, the Air Force granted $60 million to Boom Supersonic in 2022 and $20 million to Vantage Robotics in 2023, both of which are focused on advancing aircraft technology. These investments reflect the Air Force's commitment to fostering innovation in military aviation and expanding its network of suppliers.


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 founded in 2004, based in Menlo Park, California. The firm specializes in providing funding and strategic assistance to startups, particularly in the technology, healthcare, and sustainability sectors. Notably, Khosla Ventures has participated in significant funding rounds for Hermeus, a company developing hypersonic aircraft, which includes military applications. They led a $100 million Series B funding round for Hermeus in March 2022, following earlier investments in the company during its Series A and Seed rounds. Additionally, Khosla Ventures has invested in other aerospace-related startups, such as Swarm Aero, which focuses on drone technology. These transactions highlight Khosla Ventures' engagement in the aerospace sector, particularly in innovative aircraft development, which could have military implications.


19. Arlington Capital Partners


Arlington Capital Partners is a private equity firm based in Washington, D.C., founded in 1999. The firm specializes in investment management across regulated industries such as Aerospace & Defense, Government Services, Healthcare, and Business Services. Arlington Capital Partners provides strategic advisory services and manages a diverse portfolio of companies, helping them navigate complex regulatory environments and achieve growth. Notably, they have been involved in significant transactions within the aerospace sector, including the acquisition of Triumph Group, which has been renamed Qarbon Aerospace, and Aegis Technologies. They also acquired MB Aerospace, a major aerospace employer, and Cadence Aerospace, further solidifying their commitment to the aerospace and defense industries. These transactions highlight their active role in military aircraft manufacturing and related sectors.



Military Aircraft Manufacturing Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Lockheed MartinBethesda, Maryland, United States (USA)10001+191219
StarburstEl Segundo, California, United States (USA)51-20020123
BoeingArlington, Virginia, United States (USA)10001+20027
United States Department of DefenseWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)10001+194953
TransDigm Group Inc.Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)10001+19932
IQT (In-Q-Tel)Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)51-200199924
Liquid 2 VenturesSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)1-10201591
HeicoHollywood, Florida, United States (USA)1001-500019572
The Carlyle GroupWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)1001-5000198725
Lux CapitalNew York, New York, United States (USA)11-50200047
AmetekBerwyn, Pennsylvania, United States (USA)10001+19301
General CatalystSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)51-2002000144
Airbus VenturesMenlo Park, California, United States (USA)1-1020168
8vcAustin, Texas, United States (USA)11-50201562
Founders FundSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)11-50200544
Goldman SachsNew York, New York, United States (USA)10001+199859
United States Air ForceRandolph Air Force Base, Texas, United States (USA)10001+19472
Khosla VenturesMenlo Park, California, United States (USA)51-200200497
Arlington Capital PartnersWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)11-5019994


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