European defence technology startups are experiencing a surge in growth, fueled by rising defence budgets and the expertise of founders with military backgrounds. This trend underscores a strategic shift in how European nations are approaching defence innovation, leveraging the real-world experience of veterans to develop cutting-edge solutions.
Florian Seibel, a former officer in the German Armed Forces, founded Quantum Systems, a German drone startup that is now capitalising on the demand for advanced unmanned aerial systems. “Our military experience gives us a unique perspective on what’s needed in the field,” Seibel said. “We’re not just building drones; we’re building tools that save lives.”
Terminal Autonomy, a Ukrainian drone startup, exemplifies the international nature of this trend. Two of its three co-founders are veterans of the U.S. and Australian militaries, bringing a global perspective to its drone technology. Similarly, CybSafe, a British cybersecurity firm serving both commercial and defence sectors, was established by former UK Special Forces Lieutenant Colonel Oz Alashe. “Cybersecurity is a battlefield in itself,” Alashe noted. “Our military background helps us anticipate threats and develop proactive defences.”
The UK is emerging as a hotspot for defence tech innovation, with several startups founded by veterans. Rowden Technologies, founded by Rob Harper, focuses on military technology, while ARONDITE, led by former British Army veteran Will Blyth, is pushing the boundaries of defence solutions. “The skills and discipline I gained in the military are directly applicable to building a successful defence tech company,” Blyth explained.
In Estonia, Frankenburg Technologies is making waves with its mass-manufacturable missile systems, led by executives with deep military ties. “Our goal is to provide scalable, reliable solutions that meet the evolving needs of modern defence forces,” said one of the company’s leaders.
Germany’s ARX Robotics, founded by former officers of the German Armed Forces, is at the forefront of autonomous ground systems. “Autonomy is the future of defence,” said co-founder Marc Wietfeld. “Our systems are designed to operate in the most challenging environments, ensuring mission success.”
Ukrainian drone maker Buntar Aerospace was co-founded by Ivan Kaunov, who joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine in 2022. “The war has shown us what’s possible with drone technology,” Kaunov said. “We’re committed to developing systems that give our forces a decisive edge.”
In Norway, BlinkTroll, founded by former soldiers Kenneth Skorpen and Oystein Hatlestad, produces military training gear. “Training is the backbone of any successful military operation,” Skorpen said. “Our products are designed to prepare soldiers for real-world scenarios.”
The British-Ukrainian defence startup Trypillian, co-founded by Ukrainian military veteran Ivan Matveichenko, is another example of how veterans are driving innovation. Matveichenko, who participated in the battles for Bakhmut and Soledar, brings firsthand experience to the company’s development of advanced defence technologies.
Vizgard, an AI software company for defence, was founded by former British Royal Navy submariner Alex Kehoe. “AI is transforming defence,” Kehoe said. “Our software is designed to enhance decision-making and operational efficiency.”
Labrys Technologies, a UK-based software company with defence clients, was co-founded by British military veterans August Lersten and Luke Wattam. “Our military experience gives us a unique understanding of the challenges defence companies face,” Lersten said.
Adarga, a UK-based defence-focused AI firm, was founded by former British Army officer Robert Bassett Cross. “AI is a game-changer in defence,” Cross noted. “We’re developing solutions that leverage data to provide actionable insights.”
Allied Adaptive Industries, a UK-based defence procurement startup, was founded by John Williams. “Efficient procurement is critical to defence readiness,” Williams said. “Our platform streamlines the process, ensuring that military forces have the tools they need when they need them.”
In Finland, Nordic Defence Innovation Foundry, founded by active Finnish Defence Forces reservists Joel Noutere, Janne Laukkanen, and Oscar Nissin, helps innovators develop products for the military. “Innovation is key to maintaining a strong defence,” Noutere said. “We’re here to support the next generation of defence technologies.”
Crown Cyber Defence, a Finnish drone defence company, was founded by former military veteran Mattipekka Kronqvist. “Drones are a critical component of modern defence,” Kronqvist said. “Our solutions are designed to protect against emerging threats.”
Germany-based GovRadar, which assists in government and military procurement, was co-founded by Sascha Soyk, who has served in the German army. “Efficient procurement is essential for defence readiness,” Soyk