Top European Defence and Aerospace Investors in 2026: 24 Funds Supporting New Technology Startups

Venture capital firms are supporting this growth by investing in companies developing drones, radar systems, satellites, cybersecurity software, artificial intelligence (AI) and other advanced technologies.

Many startups are also building products that can be used in both civilian and military markets. These are known as dual-use technologies.

Investors play an important role in helping these businesses grow. Apart from providing money, specialist investment firms can offer industry knowledge, business connections and support in reaching new customers.

For startups looking for funding, choosing an investor with experience in their industry can make a big difference.

In this article, we look at 24 European defence and aerospace investors to watch in 2026. The list covers three main areas: defence and national security, aerospace and space technology, and cybersecurity and dual-use technology.

1. Defence and National Security Investors

Defence and national security are important areas for technology investment in Europe. Startups are developing new solutions for drone detection, military communications, surveillance, autonomous vehicles and battlefield intelligence.

Here are some investors featured in the defence and national security section of the infographic.

1. Project A

Project A is a European venture capital firm that invests in early-stage technology startups. It supports businesses working in areas such as defence technology, industrial automation and other new technologies.

The firm provides funding as well as practical business support. It helps startups develop their products, improve operations and grow their businesses. Its investment interests include technologies that can support Europe's security and independence.

2. Velaris Ventures

Velaris Ventures focuses on defence, security and important technologies. It supports European startups developing products that can help protect countries and improve security.

Its areas of interest include AI, autonomous systems, cybersecurity, secure digital infrastructure and space technology. The firm also looks at how startups can turn new ideas into products that are ready for the market.

3. Final Frontier

Final Frontier is a Nordic investment firm that supports European startups working in defence, space and cybersecurity.

Its investment areas include drones, autonomous systems, satellites, propulsion and other advanced technologies. The firm mainly supports early-stage companies, including pre-seed and seed startups.

4. Athena Allied S.A.

Athena Allied S.A. works with businesses in the defence and national security sectors. It helps connect companies with investment opportunities and supports businesses looking to work with European governments and defence organisations.

Its services also include investment advice and guidance for companies interested in defence contracts.

5. Expeditions

Expeditions is an investment firm focused on European security and advanced technology startups.

It supports companies working in defence, cybersecurity, AI, robotics, intelligence, quantum technology and space. The firm mainly invests in early-stage businesses and helps founders grow in the defence and security markets.

In July 2026, Expeditions announced that it had closed its second fund at €197 million. This fund will support companies developing new technologies for European security.

6. 7percent Ventures

7percent Ventures invests in technology startups working across different industries. Its investment interests include defence, aerospace, space technology, computing and other advanced technologies.

Its portfolio includes companies developing spacecraft engines, aerospace technology, defence solutions and advanced computing products. The firm has supported more than 150 companies, according to its portfolio information.

7. Lakestar

Lakestar is a European venture capital firm that invests in technology companies. It also has a dedicated focus on defence and dual-use technology.

The firm supports businesses developing military technology, autonomous systems, cybersecurity and other solutions that can improve European security.

In July 2026, Lakestar announced the closing of its $300 million Resilience I fund. The fund focuses on defence and dual-use technology startups.

8. T|Y|R.vc

T|Y|R.vc is included in the defence and national security category of the infographic. It is one of the investment firms founders can explore when looking for funding in Europe's defence technology sector.

Startups should check its latest investment areas, portfolio and funding requirements before approaching the firm.

9. Spring Nordic

Spring Nordic is another investor featured in the defence and national security category.

It is part of the wider group of investment firms connected to Europe's security and technology market. Startups should review its current investment activities and requirements to see whether their businesses are a good match.

10. D3 Venture Capital Firm

D3 Venture Capital Firm is listed among the defence and national security investors in the infographic.

Defence startups can include it in their investor research when exploring funding opportunities in Europe. Founders should check its current investment focus and portfolio before making contact.

11. NVM Ventures

NVM Ventures is also featured in the defence investor category.

Startups interested in approaching the firm should first review its investment plans, portfolio and preferred funding stages. This can help founders understand whether their business fits its investment interests.

12. MD One Ventures

MD One Ventures is a specialist investment firm focused on defence and national security technology. Founded in 2021, it supports advanced technology companies working in the UK, Europe and allied markets.

Its investment areas include defence software, hardware, autonomous systems and cybersecurity. The firm generally invests in startups from pre-seed to Series A and can support them as they grow.

2. Aerospace and Space Technology Investors

Space technology is becoming important for communication, navigation, weather monitoring, surveillance and national security.

European startups are developing satellites, launch vehicles, spacecraft components and other technologies that can support the growing space industry.

Here are some investors supporting this area.

13. Alpine Space Ventures

Alpine Space Ventures is a venture capital firm that focuses on early-stage space technology startups.

It invests in companies working on satellite manufacturing, space infrastructure, space operations and data processing. The firm looks for businesses with useful products that can support the growth of Europe's space industry.

14. Earlybird Venture Capital

Earlybird is a European venture capital firm that invests in technology startups at different stages of growth.

Its investment interests include deep technology and other new areas of innovation. Aerospace and space startups can explore the firm as a potential funding partner when looking for investment in Europe.

15. CDP Venture Capital SGR

CDP Venture Capital is an Italian investment organisation that supports startups and innovative companies.

It helps develop Italy's startup ecosystem by investing in businesses working in technology and industrial sectors. Its activities in space technology also make it relevant to startups looking for investment in Italy's aerospace industry.

16. OTB Ventures

OTB Ventures is a European venture capital firm focused on advanced technology startups.

Its investment areas include space technology, cybersecurity, AI and enterprise software. The firm mainly focuses on late-seed and Series A companies that have developed products and are ready to grow into new markets.

It is a potential funding partner for startups building advanced technology for businesses and industries.

17. 360 Capital

360 Capital is a European venture capital firm that invests in technology startups.

Its investment activities include deep technology and industrial innovation. It is relevant to founders developing advanced engineering products, aerospace solutions and other technologies for industrial use.

18. Seraphim Space

Seraphim Space is an investment firm focused on space technology companies.

It supports startups developing satellites, Earth observation systems, communication technology, navigation solutions and other space-related products.

The firm provides funding and industry support to businesses at different stages of growth. Its investment interests also include technologies that can support defence, security and location-based services.

19. Primo Ventures

Primo Ventures is an Italian venture capital firm that supports innovative technology companies.

It is involved in the space technology investment market and supports businesses working on new technologies. Its presence makes it relevant to startups looking for funding opportunities in Italy's growing aerospace sector.

20. Vsquared Ventures

Vsquared Ventures is a European investment firm focused on deep technology startups. It has offices in Munich and London.

The firm invests in businesses developing new products based on science and engineering. Its investment areas include space technology, robotics, manufacturing, computing, sensors and AI.

Its portfolio includes companies such as Isar Aerospace, which is developing launch vehicles, along with other advanced technology businesses.

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3. Cybersecurity and Dual-Use Technology Investors

Cybersecurity and dual-use technology are also important parts of Europe's defence industry.

Cybersecurity companies develop products that protect businesses, governments and important infrastructure from online attacks. Dual-use technology includes products that can be used for both civilian and military purposes.

The infographic features four investors in this category.

21. Iron Wolf Capital

Iron Wolf Capital is an investment firm focused on deep technology and defence startups. It has a strong interest in the Baltic region, Ukraine and other international technology markets.

Its investment areas include AI, robotics, defence, photonics and other advanced technologies. The firm supports companies developing products for both business and security markets.

22. Auriga Cyber Ventures

Auriga Cyber Ventures focuses on early-stage cybersecurity and digital security startups in Europe.

It supports founders developing products that help businesses and organisations protect their digital systems. The firm also connects startups with cybersecurity experts, business leaders and technology professionals who can help them grow.

23. Axeleo Capital

Axeleo Capital is a European venture capital firm that invests in technology startups.

Its investment areas include digital technology, cybersecurity and industrial innovation. It supports companies at different stages, including early-stage startups developing business software and advanced technology products.

24. 33N Ventures

33N Ventures is an investment firm focused on cybersecurity, AI and defence technology startups.

It supports companies developing products for data protection, digital infrastructure, threat detection and other security needs.

The firm invests in companies across different markets and has strong connections with Europe's technology ecosystem.

Why Are Investors Supporting Defence and Aerospace Startups in Europe?

Several factors are increasing investor interest in Europe's defence and aerospace industries.

1. Growing security needs

European countries are focusing more on national security. This is increasing demand for better defence systems, drone detection, military communication and surveillance technology.

2. More use of AI

AI is helping defence organisations process information, identify threats and manage operations. Startups developing AI software and autonomous systems are finding new business opportunities.

3. Growth of the space industry

Satellites are important for communication, navigation, Earth observation and security. This is creating opportunities for startups working on launch vehicles, satellite components and space data.

4. Rising cybersecurity demand

Government organisations, defence companies and critical infrastructure need stronger protection against cyberattacks. This is creating more opportunities for cybersecurity startups.

5. Focus on European technology

Europe wants to develop more important technologies within the region instead of depending heavily on other countries. This is encouraging investment in local defence, aerospace and technology companies.

How Can Defence and Aerospace Startups Find the Right Investor?

Choosing an investor is about more than getting funding. Startups should find firms that understand their industry and business goals.

Here are some important points founders should consider:

• Investment area: Check whether the firm invests in defence, aerospace, space technology, cybersecurity or dual-use products.
• Funding stage: Some investors support very early-stage startups, while others prefer companies that have already developed their products.
• Industry knowledge: Investors with defence and aerospace experience can help startups understand the market and connect with potential customers.
• Location: Check whether the firm invests in your country or supports businesses across Europe.
• Business connections: Look for investors who can introduce you to industry partners, customers and other funding organisations.

Final Thoughts

Europe's defence and aerospace industries are creating new opportunities for technology startups and investors. Growing security needs and the demand for advanced technology are encouraging more companies to develop solutions for defence, space and cybersecurity.

Investors such as MD One Ventures, Expeditions and Lakestar focus on defence and security technology. Alpine Space Ventures and Seraphim Space support the space technology sector, while Auriga Cyber Ventures and 33N Ventures focus on cybersecurity.

For startup founders, the right investor depends on the type of technology they are developing, their funding needs and their plans for growth. Researching each firm's investment focus can help businesses find suitable funding partners.

Note: This is a selected list of investors featured in the supplied infographic. It is not a complete list or an official ranking. Investment interests and funding availability may change, so startups should check the latest information from each firm before applying.