Safran
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.
- Company typePublic
- Founded2005
- HeadquartersPantin, France
- Headcount5,001–10,000
- GTM typeB2B
- OfferingHardware or Manufacturing
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.
Safran firmographics
Firmographics- 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
Safran industry classification
Industry- 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
Where Safran is headquartered
LocationHeadquarters
- HQ city
- Pantin
- HQ country
- France
- HQ region
- Europe
Offices22 records
Markets served
Safran business model
Business model- GTM type
- B2B
- Offering type
- Hardware or Manufacturing
- Cost components
- Operations, Personnel, Supply Chain, Technology or R&D, Infrastructure, Marketing or Sales
Revenue model
- Aircraft Propulsion: Civil and military aircraft engines including LEAP, CFM56, M88, and helicopter engines through Safran Aircraft Engines and Safran Helicopter Engines divisions
- Aircraft Equipment: Landing systems, wheels and brakes, electrical systems, avionics, nacelles, and transmission systems for commercial and military aircraft
- Aircraft Interiors: Passenger seats, cabin interiors, galleys, lavatories for business and commercial aircraft
- Defense Systems: Optronics, navigation systems, optronic masts, missile systems, and loitering munitions
- Aftermarket/MRO Services: Maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for engines and equipment with recurring revenue from airline and defense customers
- Space Propulsion: Fluid control valves and equipment for space launch vehicles including Ariane 6 program
Pricing tiers
| Model | Billing | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Unit Pricing | Multi-year contract | Aircraft seating contracts with major airlines |
Go-to-market motion1 record
Distribution channels4 records
Marketing channels4 records
Safran product offering
Product offeringCore 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
Companies that use Safran
Customer profileNamed customers16 records
Segments4 records
Ideal customer profiles4 records
Safran technology and API
TechnologyTechnology focussed Yes
API detail
- Has API
- No
- API docs
- API detail
Core technology
AI maturity
App detail
Feature6 records
Safran partnerships and signals
Strategic signalPartnerships
24 partnerships are on record, tiered major, core and strategic.
- Exail TechnologiesmajorExclusive 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 Internationalcore51/49 joint venture with THEON for drone technologies. THEON also acquiring HGH Systèmes Infrarouges for counter-drone systems with €300 million transaction funded through debt.
- SatSurestrategicStrategic 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 - JVcore51% THEON, 49% Safran joint venture for drone technologies. Strategic move to combine THEON's sensors with Safran's systems expertise.
- Diehl DefencecoreCooperation 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 UndertakingstrategicEU public-private partnership funding hybrid-electric aircraft research through PHARES, DEMETRA, OSYRYS, HERACLES projects targeting 30% emission reduction.
- Airbus, Technip Energies, Tereos (SAF Project)strategicJV 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 CosmosstrategicBharat Innovates 2026 MoU for deep-tech collaboration with Indian aerospace startups. Expected to generate $100 million in value creation.
- Edge GroupmajorStrategic 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.
- MBDAmajorSafran-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)major50/50 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 CooperationmajorExpanded 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)coreLongstanding partnership for helicopter and fighter jet engines in India. Co-development of Aravalli engine for IMRH fleet. M88 MRO facility in Hyderabad.
- Dassault AviationmajorTransfer 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)majorJoint 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 AerostrategicSHARP project for next-gen helicopter engine technologies. EU-supported research initiative for sustainable aviation propulsion.
- Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) - Aravalli EnginemajorCo-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)majorJoint 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)strategicCFM RISE open rotor demonstrator program jointly run by GE Aerospace and Safran, targeting 20% fuel burn advantage for next-generation commercial aircraft.
- BaykarcorePartnership for drone sensors, navigation technologies, and guided weapon integration. Bayraktar TB2 drones to be equipped with Safran's Euroflir electro-optical targeting system.
- QuandelastrategicPartnership for AQeFLU project using photonic quantum technology to simulate airflow around aircraft, accelerating engine design cycles and reducing wind tunnel testing dependence.
- AscendancestrategicAscendance 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)strategicAcquisition of Thales' Aeronautical Electrical Systems unit to strengthen position in aerospace electrical systems.
- SyrlinksstrategicAcquisition of French SME Syrlinks, specialist in radiocommunications and radionavigations for space and PNT data.
Scale indicators11 records
Recent moves7 records
Expansion highlights8 records
Safran competitors and assessment
Company assessmentDirect 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
Safran social profiles
Digital presenceSafran financial estimates
Financial estimateRevenue estimate
Valuation estimate
Safran leadership team
Management profileNumber of profiles
Profiles10 records
Safran subsidiaries and ownership
Company hierarchySubsidiaries13 records
Safran funding detail
Funding detailFunding overview
Funding rounds1 record
Investors1 record
Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Safran M&A and investment
M&A and investmentM&A26 records
Investments
M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Frequently asked questions about Safran
What does Safran do?
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.
Is Safran a public or private company?
Safran is a public company. It is classified as public and is currently operating.
When was Safran founded?
Safran was founded in 2005. It employs 5,001 to 10,000 people.
Where is Safran based?
Safran is headquartered in Pantin, France, in the Europe region.
How does Safran make money?
Six revenue lines are on record. Aircraft Propulsion is the primary driver. The others are aircraft Equipment, aircraft Interiors, defense Systems, aftermarket/MRO Services and space Propulsion.
Who are Safran's main competitors?
Direct peers on record are GE Aerospace, RTX Corporation, Rolls-Royce, Honeywell Aerospace, MTU Aero Engines, GKN Aerospace and TransDigm Group. Broad incumbents are BAE Systems and Leonardo. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries is listed as a regional player.
Does Safran have an API?
No public API is recorded for Safran.
What industry is Safran in?
Safran's product category is Aerospace Propulsion & Defense Systems. Its primary akta.pro industry code is IMABADAM, Inlets, Nacelles & Thrust Reversers, with a secondary code of IMABANAK, Aerospace Landing Gear Components & Subsystems. Its NAICS code is 33641 and its SIC code is 3724.