Exclusive report – Sources say BAE is considering making an acquisition bid for Robin Radar, with the deal potentially amounting to $2.3 billion.

Amy-Jo Crowley

Reuters London, October 1 - Three people with knowledge of the matter told Reuters that BAE Systems (BAES.L) is one of the potential bidders in the early stages of considering a takeover offer for Robin Radar Systems (link).

According to two of the sources, CVC CVC.AX and Blackstone BX.N are also considering submitting bids for the Dutch drone detection company, adding that the offers made by these private equity firms this summer were rejected before the sale process began.

One of the sources added that other potential bidders include private equity firms Advent and EQT EQTAB.ST. Reuters was the first to disclose the list of interested suitors for Robin Radar.

According to two of the sources, Robin Radar's owner — Dutch investment company Parcom — is working with JPMorgan JPM.N, planning to launch a sale process later this year. The Delft-based group could be valued at around 2 billion euros (about $2.26 billion).

BAE said it does not comment on rumours or speculation.

Parcom did not respond to requests for comment. Spokespersons for CVC and Blackstone both declined to comment.

Robin Radar said it would not comment on "confidential shareholder-related processes."

"If at any time we have news to announce regarding shareholder structure, we will disclose it in accordance with prudent practice," the company said.

Advent, EQT, and JPMorgan all declined to comment. News that Robin Radar may be up for sale was first reported by the Dutch media in June.

As Europe (link) pursues greater digital sovereignty, governments are seeking to keep key cloud, data, and digital infrastructure under domestic or European-level control, and defense M&A has come under close scrutiny.

Another source said Parcom (which acquired Robin Radar in 2024) is more inclined to choose a European strategic or private equity investor to develop its technology and benefit Europe.

In May this year, the Dutch government blocked the US-based Kyndryl (link) deal to acquire cloud services provider Solvinity for 100 million euros KD.N on grounds of public interest and national security.

This was the first time since its establishment in 2020 that the Dutch Investment Review Agency blocked an acquisition by a US firm.

Robin Radar, founded in 2010, initially focused on manufacturing small airport radars to detect birds and prevent bird strikes for military aircraft, but has since shifted to the counter-drone technology field.

Last year, the Netherlands purchased 100 early warning radars made by Robin Radar (link) to help detect drone approach near airports and air force bases.

The company’s technology is also used to secure major events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2024 Paris Olympics.

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