London – BAE Systems has entered the early‑stage talks to acquire Robin Radar Systems, a Dutch company that specializes in anti‑drone technology. Three sources familiar with the process told Reuters that the defence contractor is one of several potential bidders.

Other interested parties

Private‑equity firms CVC and Blackstone are also exploring offers, although a proposal from the two firms earlier this summer was rejected before the formal sale process began. Additional interest comes from Advent and EQT, according to one of the sources.

Sale process and valuation

Robin Radar’s owner, Dutch investment firm Parcom, is working with JPMorgan to launch a sale later this year. The transaction could value the Delft‑based group at roughly €2 billion (about $2.26 billion). Parcom acquired Robin Radar in 2024 and prefers a European strategic or private‑equity investor to develop the technology for Europe’s benefit.

Company background

Founded in 2010, Robin Radar originally built small airport radars to detect bird flocks and prevent strikes on military aircraft. It has since expanded into anti‑drone solutions, supplying early‑warning radars to the Dutch government and providing protection for major events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

Regulatory context

The deal comes as Europe tightens scrutiny of defence‑sector transactions to preserve digital sovereignty. Earlier this year, the Dutch Investment Screening Bureau blocked a US‑based takeover of cloud‑services provider Solvinity on national‑security grounds, marking the first such intervention since the bureau’s creation in 2020.

BAE declined to comment on the rumours, and Parcom, CVC, Blackstone, Advent, EQT and JPMorgan all declined to provide statements.

Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.