BAE Systems is committing €50 million to VC funds focused on backing European defencetech startups. The investments will expand on the Company’s longstanding approach to investing in future technology and forms the second stage of its recently announced Launchpad programme, which aims to accelerate disruptive innovation.
Launchpad aims to address the challenge of moving defence technologies beyond prototype development by funding early-stage ventures or spinning them out as independent startups. This aligns with key priorities across Europe and the UK.
The programme is designed to leverage BAE Systems’ position as a technology innovator to support national priorities, including rapid technology incubation, sovereign capability and economic growth.
It also provides startups with access to customers across a broader range of sectors, like energy and advanced manufacturing. €25 million will be invested in two funds led by Expeditions and Lakestar, who are both working to help shape the future of European defence innovation by backing founders and technologies that aim to deliver next-generation capabilities for allies across the continent.
According to Dave Ewing, Head of Technology Commercialisation at BAE Systems, the company has always valued the capabilities and ingenuity that early-stage founders bring to the table.
