Airbus Defence and Space has announced a strategic investment in the newly launched E2D dual-use and defence technology growth fund, becoming its anchor investor. The move aims to strengthen Europe’s defence and technology ecosystem by supporting high-growth companies developing advanced defence and dual-use technologies.
Launched by European investment firms AVP and Earlybird, the E2D fund is targeting €500 million and is one of the largest Franco-German investment initiatives focused on defence innovation. The fund will provide growth capital to around 20 technology companies, with an average investment of €25 million per company.
The investment is designed to accelerate the development of critical technologies across the space, air, land, maritime and subsurface domains while helping Europe strengthen its technological capabilities and reduce dependence on external suppliers.
Michael Schoellhorn, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space, said the investment reflects the need to rapidly expand Europe’s defence technology ecosystem. He noted that supporting innovative companies will help retain critical talent, intellectual property and investment within Europe while strengthening future defence capabilities.
The fund has also announced its first investment in Alta Ares, a French company developing AI-powered intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR) and counter-drone technologies. The investment follows a recent Memorandum of Understanding between Airbus Defence and Space and Alta Ares to jointly develop next-generation European counter-UAS solutions.
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Founded in Paris in 2016, AVP manages more than €2.5 billion in assets, while pan-European venture capital firm Earlybird, established in 1997, also manages over €2.5 billion, supporting innovative technology companies across Europe.
The investment highlights the growing role of strategic financing in accelerating defence innovation and strengthening Europe’s long-term aerospace and defence industrial base.
