BAE Systems, Private Equity Firms Weigh Bids for Drone-Detection Specialist Robin Radar

British defense giant BAE Systems is among several potential suitors exploring an acquisition of Dutch drone-detection firm Robin Radar Systems, according to three people familiar with the matter. The potential deal could value the high-tech company at approximately €2 billion ($2.26 billion).

A Crowded Field of Bidders

Robin Radar's current owner, Dutch investment firm Parcom, is working with JPMorgan to launch a formal sale process later this year, two of the sources told Reuters. Alongside BAE, a strategic bidder, several major private equity firms are also reportedly evaluating offers.

Potential financial bidders include:

• CVC
• Blackstone
• Advent
• EQT

CVC and Blackstone had a previous offer rejected over the summer before the formal sale process began, two of the people said. BAE, the private equity firms, and JPMorgan all declined to comment. Parcom did not respond to requests for comment, while Robin Radar stated it would not comment on "confidential shareholder processes."

Geopolitical and Strategic Context

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The potential sale comes amid heightened scrutiny of technology deals in Europe, as governments push for greater "digital sovereignty" and seek to retain control over critical infrastructure. One source noted that Parcom, which acquired Robin Radar in 2024, would prefer a European buyer to ensure its technology is developed for the region's benefit.

This sensitivity was recently highlighted when the Dutch government blocked the acquisition of cloud services provider Solvinity by US-based Kyndryl, citing national security concerns. It marked the first time the country's Investment Screening Bureau has blocked a U.S. takeover since its establishment in 2020.

Robin Radar's Technology

Founded in 2010, Robin Radar initially developed radars to detect birds near airfields but has since become a leader in anti-drone technology. Its systems are used to counter the growing threat of unmanned aerial vehicles.

The company's technology has been deployed by the Dutch military and used to secure high-profile events, including the 2024 Paris Olympic Games and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.