Safran

What Safran does

Safran S.A. is a French publicly listed aerospace and defense technology group (Euronext Paris: SAF, CAC 40 component) formed in 2005 from the merger of Snecma and Sagem. The company operates through wholly owned subsidiaries organized into four business areas: aircraft propulsion (Safran Aircraft Engines, Safran Helicopter Engines, and the 50/50 CFM International joint venture with GE Aerospace producing CFM56 and LEAP turbofans for the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 families), aircraft equipment (Safran Landing Systems, Safran Nacelles, Safran Aerosystems, Safran Electrical & Power, Safran Transmission Systems), aircraft interiors (Safran Seats, Safran Cabin), and defense electronics (Safran Electronics & Defense, optronics, inertial navigation, loitering munitions, and missile systems). It also holds a 50% interest in ArianeGroup with Airbus for European space launchers.

The core technology base spans high-bypass turbofans, military turbofans (M88 for the Rafale), helicopter turboshafts (Arrius, Arriel, Makila, Shakti/Ardiden co-developed with HAL), Hemispherical Resonator Gyroscopes (HRG) for GPS-independent navigation, electro-optical targeting systems (Euroflir), and emerging ENGINeUS electric motors for hybrid-electric and eVTOL aircraft. The company owns 588 products and services, operates 276 locations across 27 countries, and employs more than 100,000 people globally. It is a tier-1 OEM supplier to Airbus, Boeing, Embraer, and Dassault, with €15.7 billion in propulsion revenue and a market capitalization of approximately €136.6 billion.

Safran's business model combines OEM-embedded hardware sales (engines, nacelles, landing systems, seats, avionics) with a large, recurring aftermarket and MRO services stream. Pricing is negotiated under multi-year B2B contracts; example deal sizes include a USD 1.2 billion seating contract with Emirates. The customer base spans commercial airlines (Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, LATAM, GOL, Akasa), aircraft OEMs (Airbus, Boeing, Embraer, Dassault, COMAC), and government/defense customers (French MoD, Indian Air Force and Navy, Australian Defence Force, Bundeswehr, UAE). The company invests heavily in industrial capacity (€1.4B expansion program) and runs active corporate venturing, JVs, and M&A (Syrlinks, Thales Aeronautical Electrical Systems, Collins Military GPS, Preligens, Exail pending) to extend its propulsion-plus-equipment platform into space, maritime robotics, sustainable aviation fuel, and quantum-accelerated design.

Name

Safran

Legal name

Safran S.A.

Website

http://www.safran-group.com

Company type

Public

Founded year

2005

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

5,001–10,000 employees

Short description

Safran is a French aerospace and defense group operating through subsidiaries in aircraft propulsion (LEAP/CFM56 via CFM JV with GE, M88 for Rafale), equipment, interiors, and defense electronics, supplying Airbus, Boeing, Embraer, Dassault, and government defense customers worldwide.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Aerospace Propulsion & Defense Systems

NAICS

Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing (33641), Search, Detection, Navigation, Guidance, Aeronautical, and Nautical System and Instrument Manufacturing (334511), Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing (336413), Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Propulsion Unit and Propulsion Unit Parts Manufacturing (336415), Other Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing (336419)

SIC

Aircraft Engines & Engine Parts (3724), Search, Detection, Navagation, Guidance, Aeronautical Sys (3812), Guided Missiles & Space Vehicles & Parts (3760), Aircraft Parts & Auxiliary Equipment, Nec (3728), Aircraft & Parts (3720)

akta.pro primary industry

Inlets, Nacelles & Thrust Reversers (IMABADAM)

akta.pro secondary industries

Aerospace Landing Gear Components & Subsystems (IMABANAK), Component MRO (LRU/Rotables, Hydraulics, Pneumatics) (IMABALAD), MRO Engineering, Technical Publications & CAMO Support (IMABALAO), Parts Distribution & Spares Management (Aftermarket) (IMABALAK), Engine Control, Fuel & Ignition Systems (FADEC/Accessories) (IMABADAK), Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) & Alternative Fuels (e-fuels, biofuels, hydrogen) (THABANAA), Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Production (HEFA, FT, ATJ) (EUAAAHAE)

Keywords

• Aerospace propulsion
• Aircraft engines
• Defense systems
• Aircraft equipment
• Cabin interiors

Headquarters

HQ city

Pantin

HQ country

France

HQ region

Europe

Offices22 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Hardware or Manufacturing

Cost components

Operations, Personnel, Supply Chain, Technology or R&D, Infrastructure, Marketing or Sales

Revenue model

1. Aircraft Propulsion: Civil and military aircraft engines including LEAP, CFM56, M88, and helicopter engines through Safran Aircraft Engines and Safran Helicopter Engines divisions
2. Aircraft Equipment: Landing systems, wheels and brakes, electrical systems, avionics, nacelles, and transmission systems for commercial and military aircraft
3. Aircraft Interiors: Passenger seats, cabin interiors, galleys, lavatories for business and commercial aircraft
4. Defense Systems: Optronics, navigation systems, optronic masts, missile systems, and loitering munitions
5. Aftermarket/MRO Services: Maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for engines and equipment with recurring revenue from airline and defense customers
6. Space Propulsion: Fluid control valves and equipment for space launch vehicles including Ariane 6 program

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion1 record

Distribution channels4 records

Marketing channels4 records

Core offering

Safran is a global aerospace and defense technology group that designs, manufactures, and supports aircraft propulsion systems (LEAP, CFM56, M88 engines via CFM International JV with GE), aircraft equipment (landing systems, nacelles, electrical power, avionics), aircraft interiors (seats, galleys, cabin systems), and defense systems (optronics, navigation sensors, missiles, loitering munitions). The company also delivers aftermarket maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services for engines and equipment through a global network across 276 locations in 27 countries.

Product overview

Safran is a global aerospace and defense technology group organized into multiple operating subsidiaries covering aircraft propulsion, equipment, interiors, and defense systems. The propulsion portfolio includes the LEAP and CFM56 turbofan engines (via CFM International joint venture with GE), military M88 engines for Rafale fighters, and helicopter engines including the Shakti/Ardiden family co-developed with HAL India. Equipment businesses encompass Safran Landing Systems (landing gear, wheels, brakes), Safran Nacelles (engine housings), Safran Aerosystems (safety equipment), and Safran Electrical & Power (wiring systems). Interior offerings include Safran Seats and Safran Cabin (galleys, lavatories). Defense capabilities span Safran Electronics & Defense (optronics, navigation including Sigma 95N and HRG gyroscopes, Euroflir targeting systems), loitering munitions (Hussar with Diehl), and rocket systems (Thundart with MBDA). Emerging technologies include ENGINeUS electric motors for hybrid-electric aviation, and the company maintains MRO services and digital tools like Cassiopée for fleet management. The portfolio serves commercial aviation (Airbus, Boeing, Embraer), military platforms (Rafale, helicopters), and defense forces worldwide.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• CFM International: Joint venture with GE Aerospace producing CFM56 and LEAP aircraft engines
• ArianeGroup
• LEAP
• CFM56
• ENGINeUS
• TopOwl

Products and services

• LEAP Engine Family
• CFM56 Engine
• M88 Engine
• Shakti/Ardiden Engine Family
• Safran Nacelles
• Safran Landing Systems
• Safran Seats
• Safran Cabin
• Safran Electrical & Power
• Sigma 95N Navigation System
• HRG Gyroscopes (Hemispherical Resonator Gyroscopes)
• Euroflir Electro-Optical Targeting System
• JIM Compact Binoculars
• ENGINeUS Electric Motor
• Cassiopée
• Safran Aerosystems
• Safran Electronics & Defense
• Safran Helicopter Engines
• Safran Transmission Systems
• Safran Data Systems
• Thundart Rocket System
• Hussar Loitering Munition
• Aftermarket MRO Services

Quantifiable outcome

• 15% fuel consumption reduction with LEAP engine compared to previous generation
• +2 more outcomes

Named customers16 records

Segments4 records

Ideal customer profiles4 records

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature6 records

Partnerships

24 partnerships are on record, tiered major, core and strategic.

• Exail TechnologiesmajorStrategic or Co-development Partner · 27 June 2026Exclusive negotiations for acquisition at €128.50 per share, valuing the company at approximately €2.19 billion. Exail specializes in maritime robotics and navigation systems, representing strategic expansion into underwater drone technology.
• THEON InternationalcoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 22 June 202651/49 joint venture with THEON for drone technologies. THEON also acquiring HGH Systèmes Infrarouges for counter-drone systems with €300 million transaction funded through debt.
• SatSurestrategicTechnology or Integration · 22 June 2026Strategic partnership to advance geospatial intelligence solutions for Indian market. Combines SatSure's satellite analytics and AI insights with Safran's defense technologies for intelligence and surveillance.
• THEON International - JVcoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 22 June 202651% THEON, 49% Safran joint venture for drone technologies. Strategic move to combine THEON's sensors with Safran's systems expertise.
• Diehl DefencecoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 18 June 2026Cooperation agreement at Eurosatory 2026 to revive Hussar loitering munition program. Autonomous air-to-ground weapon with AI processing and scalable warheads. Seven years after initial unveiling.
• Clean Aviation Joint UndertakingstrategicStrategic or Co-development Partner · 18 June 2026EU public-private partnership funding hybrid-electric aircraft research through PHARES, DEMETRA, OSYRYS, HERACLES projects targeting 30% emission reduction.
• Airbus, Technip Energies, Tereos (SAF Project)strategicStrategic or Co-development Partner · 18 June 2026JV at Port of Dunkirk for 160,000 ton/year Alcohol-to-Jet SAF production supporting EU decarbonization goals and aviation energy transition.
• IIT Madras / Agnikul CosmosstrategicTechnology or Integration · 17 June 2026Bharat Innovates 2026 MoU for deep-tech collaboration with Indian aerospace startups. Expected to generate $100 million in value creation.
• Edge GroupmajorStrategic or Co-development Partner · 16 June 2026Strategic cooperation agreement for next-generation missiles through two joint ventures - one in UAE and one in France. Deal announced at Eurosatory defense exhibition, driven by escalating regional conflict and Abu Dhabi's rearmament program.
• MBDAmajorStrategic or Co-development Partner · 16 June 2026Safran-MBDA partnership selected for Thundart artillery system - precision strikes up to 150km for French Army. Final phase of negotiations with French defense procurement agency DGA.
• GE Aerospace (CFM International)majorStrategic or Co-development Partner · 16 June 202650/50 joint venture developing and producing CFM56 and LEAP engines for Airbus A320 and Boeing 737. Major source of narrow-body engine market leadership.
• Edge Group - Expanded CooperationmajorStrategic or Co-development Partner · 15 June 2026Expanded defense electronics, smart weapons, and autonomous systems cooperation. Builds on 30+ years of UAE presence and extends to electronic warfare capabilities.
• Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)coreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 14 June 2026Longstanding partnership for helicopter and fighter jet engines in India. Co-development of Aravalli engine for IMRH fleet. M88 MRO facility in Hyderabad.
• Dassault AviationmajorStrategic or Co-development Partner · 12 June 2026Transfer of Technology for 114 Rafale jets under MRFA program. 55-60% indigenous content target with up to 90 aircraft manufactured in India.
• Rebound JV (Technip Energies, Airbus, Tereos)majorStrategic or Co-development Partner · 9 June 2026Joint venture to develop large-scale SAF production facility at Port of Dunkirk, France. Target 160,000 tons of Alcohol-to-Jet SAF annually. Rebound expected to close H2 2026 pending approvals.
• MTU Aero Engines, Avio AerostrategicStrategic or Co-development Partner · 9 June 2026SHARP project for next-gen helicopter engine technologies. EU-supported research initiative for sustainable aviation propulsion.
• Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) - Aravalli EnginemajorStrategic or Co-development Partner · 8 June 2026Co-development of Aravalli engine for Indian Multi-Role Helicopter fleet under HAL's plan to manufacture 1,000 military helicopters over 20 years.
• Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE)majorStrategic or Co-development Partner · 4 June 2026Joint development of 110-120 kN class turbofan engine for AMCA Mk2. Project valued at ₹61,000 crore ($7 billion). Variable geometry afterburner with thermal stealth using CMC materials.
• GE Aerospace (RISE Program)strategicStrategic or Co-development Partner · 3 June 2026CFM RISE open rotor demonstrator program jointly run by GE Aerospace and Safran, targeting 20% fuel burn advantage for next-generation commercial aircraft.
• BaykarcoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 14 May 2026Partnership for drone sensors, navigation technologies, and guided weapon integration. Bayraktar TB2 drones to be equipped with Safran's Euroflir electro-optical targeting system.
• QuandelastrategicTechnology or Integration · 7 May 2026Partnership for AQeFLU project using photonic quantum technology to simulate airflow around aircraft, accelerating engine design cycles and reducing wind tunnel testing dependence.
• AscendancestrategicTechnology or Integration · 7 May 2026Ascendance selected Safran's ENGINeUS electric motor for ATEA eVTOL aircraft. Partnership in hybrid-electric aviation technology with intensive testing on test bench.
• Thales (Aeronautical Electrical Systems)strategicStrategic or Co-development Partner · 24 October 2023Acquisition of Thales' Aeronautical Electrical Systems unit to strengthen position in aerospace electrical systems.
• SyrlinksstrategicStrategic or Co-development Partner · 4 November 2022Acquisition of French SME Syrlinks, specialist in radiocommunications and radionavigations for space and PNT data.

Scale indicators11 records

Recent moves7 records

Expansion highlights8 records

Direct peers

• GE Aerospace: Safran's 50/50 CFM International JV partner and the other half of the narrow-body engine duopoly. GE Aerospace is a direct peer in commercial engine MRO, military engines, and avionics, and the JV structure means the two companies are simultaneously partners and competitors.
• RTX Corporation: Parent of Pratt & Whitney (direct propulsion competitor to CFM) and Collins Aerospace (direct competitor to Safran's equipment, interiors, and avionics businesses). RTX is the most direct full-spectrum aerospace peer across both commercial and defense markets.
• Rolls-Royce: Direct competitor in commercial wide-body engines (Trent family powering many of the same Airbus/Boeing platforms), military engines, and increasingly defense electronics. Comparable in scale, defense exposure, and aftermarket services business model.
• Honeywell Aerospace: Direct competitor in aircraft equipment (avionics, propulsion accessories, navigation systems), environmental control systems, and engine control/FADEC systems. Operates with a comparable systems-integration business model targeting the same OEM customers.
• MTU Aero Engines: German engine manufacturer participating in multiple engine programs (V2500, PW1000G, TP400) and a major MRO provider. Direct peer in engine components, MRO services, and emerging propulsion programs (SHARP helicopter engine partnership with Safran).
• GKN Aerospace: Supplies engine components, aerostructures, and transparencies to the same engine and airframe OEMs as Safran. Direct peer in engine casings, nacelles-adjacent structures, and propulsion-system subassemblies.
• TransDigm Group: Specialized aerospace components supplier with similar proprietary-parts, aftermarket-heavy business model. Competes across multiple Safran equipment categories including engine accessories, fuel systems, and actuation.

Broad incumbents

• BAE Systems: Large European defense prime competing with Safran Electronics & Defense in military avionics, navigation, and defense electronics. Broader platform than Safran's defense business but directly comparable in defense electronics and European defense market positioning.
• Leonardo: Italian defense and aerospace group with overlapping helicopter engine (via Avio Aero/Aero engines division), defense electronics, and aircraft systems businesses. A European incumbent peer in both propulsion and defense electronics.

Regional players

• Mitsubishi Heavy Industries: Japanese aerospace group participating in the PW1100G engine program and supplying aerospace components to global OEMs. Comparable in propulsion components and defense systems, primarily serving Asian and export markets rather than directly competing in Europe/US defense.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat6 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• Xx.com/SAFRAN
• YouTubeyoutube.com/user/GroupeSafran
• Facebookfacebook.com/GroupeSafran
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/safran
• Instagraminstagram.com/safran_group

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles10 records

Subsidiaries13 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds1 record

Investors1 record

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A26 records

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Safran