Airbus Acquires UK-Based Ultra Cyber to Strengthen Europe’s Sovereign…

Team S · 2026-03-23T16:21:18.000Z

European aerospace and defence giant Airbus has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Ultra Cyber Ltd, a United Kingdom-based cybersecurity firm, from Cobham Ultra (owned by Advent International), reinforcing its position in the European cyber defence ecosystem. This transaction represents a clear Europe-to-Europe strategic acquisition, connecting a France/Germany-based aerospace leader (Airbus) with a UK-based deep-tech cybersecurity company, strengthening regional technological sovereignty. Ultra Cyber, headquartered in Maidenhead, UK, employs over 200 specialists and operates a state-of-the-art cyber centre of excellence, delivering advanced solutions in secure communications, cyber defence, and electronic warfare systems. The acquisition will be integrated into Airbus Defence and Space’s Connected Intelligence unit, enhancing its end-to-end cybersecurity portfolio, including capabilities across both ground systems and airborne defence platforms. Strategically, this move is part of Airbus’s broader vision to build a “European digital shield”- a secure, sovereign cyber infrastructure supporting not only European nations but also NATO and allied countries. The deal is expected to close in the second half of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals, further strengthening Airbus’s footprint in the UK as a key defence and innovation hub.

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Airbus Acquires UK-Based Ultra Cyber to Strengthen Europe’s Sovereign… | Newnex