Airbus Acquires UK Cybersecurity Firm Ultra Cyber to Strengthen European Defence
In a strategic move to enhance its cyber defence capabilities across Europe, US aerospace and defence giant Airbus has announced an agreement to acquire UK cybersecurity firm Ultra Cyber. The Maidenhead-based company, which employs more than 200 staff, will be purchased from private equity firm Advent International for an undisclosed sum.
The acquisition is expected to finalise in the second half of 2026 and will reinforce Airbus's position as a trusted, sovereign partner for the UK and a key supplier to its allies. This deal will significantly bolster Airbus's cybersecurity presence throughout Europe, complementing its existing operations in Newport, Wales.
Strategic Expansion in Cybersecurity
This acquisition follows Airbus's previous purchase of German cybersecurity firm Infodas in 2024, highlighting the company's ongoing commitment to expanding its digital defence portfolio. Ultra Cyber was originally part of former FTSE 250 firm Ultra Electronics, which was acquired by defence company Cobham for £2.6 billion in 2021. Cobham itself had been bought by Advent International a year earlier.
Mike Schoellhorn, chief executive of Airbus Defence and Space, emphasised the long-term significance of this move. "This acquisition testifies to our long-term commitment to the UK as a core home market," he stated. "By joining our expertise with Ultra Cyber's unique capabilities, we are acting as a long-term, trusted partner to the UK Ministry of Defence. We are building the resilient, sovereign infrastructure required to help keep the UK and its allies ahead in the cyber domain."
Geopolitical Context and Industry Trends
The deal comes amid a period of heightened geopolitical tension and uncertainty, which has increased demand for advanced cybersecurity solutions. Shonnel Malani, managing partner at Advent and chairman of the board at Ultra Electronics, commented on the timing. "During what has been a time of major geopolitical tension and uncertainty, we are proud that the investments made in Ultra Cyber, under Advent's ownership, have supported efforts to help protect the country and its allies from electronic warfare, and contributed to strengthening the UK's sovereign capabilities."
This acquisition is part of a broader trend in the defence and private equity sectors. Last year, Advent agreed to buy Ultra Precision Control Systems from US firm Eaton, and recent reports suggest the private equity firm is also considering selling its Ultra Maritime business due to increased demand driven by recent conflicts.
The integration of Ultra Cyber into Airbus's operations is poised to create a more robust cybersecurity framework, enhancing the company's ability to address evolving digital threats and support national security objectives across Europe.
