Airbus Aims to Acquire Quarkslab, Accelerating Its Cybersecurity Offensive

Airbus Signs Acquisition Agreement with Quarkslab

Airbus has signed an acquisition agreement with Quarkslab, a French cybersecurity firm based in Paris and Rennes. Supported by Tikehau Capital since 2020, the company is recognized for its expertise in protecting against cyber threats and develops QShield, a solution designed for software publishers to safeguard codes and data against AI-related threats. The transaction is expected to be finalized in 2026, pending consultation with social partners and usual regulatory approvals. This acquisition aligns with Airbus's strategy to strengthen its position as a trusted partner to French authorities and to expand its sovereign cybersecurity capabilities.

Strategic Expansion in Cybersecurity

This acquisition comes less than a month after a similar move by Airbus Defence and Space. It follows the acquisition of Infodas in Germany in 2024 and the planned acquisition of Ultra Cyber Ltd in the United Kingdom announced in March 2026. These three transactions enable Airbus Defence and Space to establish a pan-European presence in cybersecurity with teams located in France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Spain, and Finland. Quarkslab, already a partner and supplier to Airbus, will further enhance the French sovereign capabilities of the group in this strategic field.

Quarkslab's Expertise in Tailored Cybersecurity Solutions

Quarkslab relies on its QLab team to offer customized solutions for protection against sophisticated cyber threats targeted at governments and the private sector. Its engineers and developers focus on research and development by bridging academic work and practical security applications. The integration of Quarkslab into Airbus Defence and Space is expected to accelerate the growth of the group's cyber activities and strengthen its ability to build a digital shield for governments and institutions.