VC Funding in European Defence and Security Tech Soars to Record $5.2bn
In 2024, European VC investment in defence and security tech surged by 24% to hit a record $5.2bn, driven by heightened defence concerns and supported by initiatives like the Nato Innovation Fund. Germany, particularly Munich, has emerged as a new hub, outpacing the UK in funding attraction.
Published on March 30, 2025
In 2024, European venture capital investment in defence and security technology start-ups surged 24% to a record $5.2 billion. Driven by ongoing concerns stemming from the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the surge highlights strong investor interest in sectors such as defence, security, and resilience. Notably, Germany surpassed the UK in attracting VC funding, with Munich emerging as a key hub, and companies like Helsing, an AI battlefield tech developer, leading the trend.
Support from initiatives such as the Nato Innovation Fund—launched in 2022 with €1 billion—has been pivotal in closing the defence tech funding gap with US counterparts. Recent supplemental information from sources including Financial Times and Reuters also underscores parallel developments across Europe, with similar public and private capital efforts seen in France and Estonia. The forthcoming Munich Security Conference is expected to further spotlight these strategic investments and accelerated government procurement processes.