Airbus to Acquire Ultra Cyber Ltd to Expand UK Cybersecurity Capabilities

Airbus has signed a definitive agreement with Cobham Ultra Group, a portfolio company of Advent, to acquire Ultra Cyber Ltd. The move aims to strengthen Airbus’s role as a sovereign partner for the United Kingdom and to expand its presence within the European cybersecurity sector.

Acquisition supports UK-focused cyber capabilities

Ultra Cyber Ltd employs more than 200 people, primarily based at its cyber centre in Maidenhead. Following the acquisition, the business will be integrated into Airbus Defence and Space’s Connected Intelligence unit, contributing to the company’s growing cyber operations.

The addition of Ultra Cyber will complement Airbus’ existing cybersecurity activities in the UK, including its operations in Newport, Wales. The move reflects Airbus’s continued investment in the UK as one of its key markets, with a focus on supporting national digital security and defence requirements.

Strengthening European cyber strategy

The acquisition forms part of Airbus’s broader strategy to expand its cyber capabilities across Europe. The company is building a network of cyber operations across the UK, France, Germany, Spain and Finland, supporting collaboration across regions.

This follows Airbus’ earlier acquisition of Infodas in 2024, which added capabilities in secure cross-domain solutions within Germany and the wider European market.

In addition to cybersecurity services, the deal includes airborne datalink capabilities, which can be applied to Airbus’ defence and aerospace programmes. These capabilities support secure data exchange across both ground and airborne environments.

Airbus Defence and Space CEO Mike Schoellhorn said the acquisition reflects the company’s long-term focus on the UK market and its work with the Ministry of Defence. Representatives from Advent and Ultra Cyber also noted that the agreement supports continued development of cyber capabilities and innovation in the UK.

The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and is expected to be completed in the second half of 2026.