Airbus Acquires Ultra Cyber to Enhance UK Cybersecurity

Airbus, the US aerospace and defense giant, has announced its agreement to acquire the UK cybersecurity firm Ultra Cyber from private equity firm Advent International. This acquisition, expected to finalize in the second half of 2026, aims to strengthen Airbus's cybersecurity capabilities in Europe and reinforce its role as a trusted partner for the UK and its allies. Ultra Cyber, based in Maidenhead and employing over 200 staff, is currently part of Advent's Cobham Ultra defense business.

The Independent

Ultra Cyber was previously a segment of Ultra Electronics, a former FTSE 250 company acquired by Cobham for £2.6 billion in 2021. Cobham itself was purchased by Advent International, which has been actively restructuring its defense portfolio. The acquisition of Ultra Cyber follows Airbus's earlier purchase of the German cybersecurity firm Infodas in 2024, indicating a strategic focus on enhancing its cybersecurity presence across Europe.

The Independent

Mike Schoellhorn, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space, emphasized that this acquisition underscores Airbus's long-term commitment to the UK as a core 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.” The acquisition is seen as a move to build resilient infrastructure necessary for maintaining an edge in the cyber domain, particularly amid rising geopolitical tensions.

The Independent

Shonnel Malani, managing partner at Advent and chairman of the board at Ultra Electronics, remarked on the significance of the investment in Ultra Cyber, noting that it has bolstered efforts to protect the UK and its allies from electronic warfare. He stated, “During what has been a time of major geopolitical tension and uncertainty, we are proud that the investments made in Ultra Cyber... have contributed to strengthening the UK’s sovereign capabilities.”

The Independent

While the acquisition is largely viewed positively within defense circles, some critics express concern over the consolidation of cybersecurity firms under large defense contractors like Airbus. They argue that such consolidations could lead to reduced competition and innovation in the cybersecurity sector, potentially impacting the overall effectiveness of national defense strategies.

The Independent

As Airbus prepares to finalize the acquisition of Ultra Cyber, the company is expected to integrate its operations with existing cybersecurity initiatives in Newport, Wales. This move is part of a broader strategy to enhance its defense capabilities and respond to increasing demands for cybersecurity solutions in the context of global security challenges.

The Independent

• “Mike Schoellhorn, chief executive of Airbus Defence and Space, said: “This acquisition testifies to our long-term commitment to the UK as a core home market.” — Mike Schoellhorn, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space

The Independent

• “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.” — Shonnel Malani, Managing Partner at Advent

The Independent