Airbus has agreed to acquire French cyber‑security specialist Quarkslab, a move that signals the aerospace giant’s push into digital defence. The deal, expected to close in 2026, adds a small but nimble firm with 100 staff to Airbus’s portfolio. The purchase follows Infodas in Germany and Ultra Cyber in the U.K.

Quarkslab, founded in 2011, specialises in protecting critical assets, data and users from cyberattacks. Its modest size belies a reputation for advanced threat‑detection tools that appeal to government and defence clients. The acquisition bolsters Airbus’s existing cyber‑security arm and aligns with France’s push for sovereign digital defence capabilities.

Airbus’s expansion into cyber‑security follows a broader European trend where defence contractors deepen digital resilience. Investors view the move as a diversification strategy, potentially opening new revenue streams beyond aircraft manufacturing. The deal also positions Airbus to meet growing regulatory pressure for integrated security solutions across its supply chain.

With the transaction slated to finalise in 2026, Airbus will integrate Quarkslab’s expertise into its existing security division, potentially accelerating product development for aircraft and satellite platforms. The acquisition underscores the company’s commitment to safeguarding its own operations while offering clients a broader portfolio of cyber‑defence services.