ARQUIMEA Aerospace & Defence

What ARQUIMEA Aerospace & Defence does

ARQUIMEA Aerospace & Defence is a privately-held Spanish technology group (ARQUIMEA GROUP, S.A.) headquartered in Torrejón de Ardoz, Madrid, that designs, manufactures, and integrates proprietary hardware and subsystems for aerospace, defense, big science, and fintech end markets. Founded in 2005 by Dr. Diego Fernández (formerly of Airbus Defense & Space), the company employs more than 500 people, the majority engineers and technical specialists, including 170+ PhDs and engineers dedicated to R&D&I and 93 researchers at the ARQUIMEA Research Center in Tenerife. Revenue reached €115 million in FY2022 across five operating sectors (aerospace, defense, big science, biotechnology, and fintech).

The company operates a vertically-integrated product portfolio built on more than 100 proprietary technologies. Space products include HDRM-REACT shape memory alloy hold-down and release mechanisms, loop heat pipes, radiation-hardened microelectronics (ASIC/FPGA), thermal blankets, thermo-structural radiator panels, satcom payloads, complete satellite integration, and the MAGEC LEO secure communications constellation (264 satellites across 12 orbital planes) operated through subsidiary CanarySat. Defense products span loitering munitions (Kronos Mini naval USV, S-Wise UUV, Q-SLAM-40, SHEPHERD-MIL UAS), optronic border surveillance systems, and fire control / mortar electronics. Aeronautical offerings include certified flight parts, ground support equipment, and patented UAV-based robotic falconry bird-strike prevention. Scientific instruments serve astrophysics (CTA Observatory cameras), particle physics, fusion energy, and deep geological storage applications. Through subsidiary Kaudal, ARQUIMEA also provides R&D tax lease financing.

Go-to-market is primarily enterprise field sales via direct contracts with government space agencies (NASA, ESA), defense ministries, armed forces (Spanish Army, NATO allies, Civil Guard), and aerospace prime contractors (Airbus, Hispasat, L3Harris, Lanteris/Intuitive Machines). The company has participated in 190+ space missions, serves 200+ customers, and operates 8+ offices across Spain, the US (Pasadena), Singapore, and Abu Dhabi. Recent M&A (Iberespacio and Ecliptic Enterprises in 2021; Perseo Techworks in 2025) and major 2026 contract wins — including 18 satellite structures for the US Space Development Agency Tranche 3 Tracking Layer — indicate an active scaling strategy under founder/president Dr. Diego Fernández, with Angel Criado as CEO.

Name

ARQUIMEA Aerospace & Defence

Legal name

ARQUIMEA GROUP, S.A.

Website

https://arquimea.com

Company type

Private

Founded year

2005

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

251–500 employees

Short description

ARQUIMEA Aerospace & Defence is a privately-held Spanish technology group that designs, manufactures, and integrates proprietary aerospace, defense, and scientific subsystems — including space mechanisms, thermal control, rad-hard microelectronics, loitering munitions, and the MAGEC LEO constellation — for government agencies and prime contractors globally.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Aerospace & Defense Manufacturing

NAICS

Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing (336414), Other Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing (336419), Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing (33641), Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing (336413)

SIC

Guided Missiles & Space Vehicles & Parts (3760), Aircraft Parts & Auxiliary Equipment, Nec (3728)

akta.pro primary industry

Spacecraft & Satellites (Civil/Commercial) (IMABACAB)

akta.pro secondary industries

Military Space Systems (Defense Spacecraft) (IMABACAC), Space Structures, Mechanisms & Thermal Control (IMABACAF), Spacecraft Avionics, Flight Computers & Software (IMABACAI)

Keywords

• Space mechanism manufacturing
• Defense systems engineering
• Satellite components supply
• Aerospace parts manufacturing
• Military loitering munitions

Headquarters

HQ city

Leganés

HQ country

Spain

HQ region

Europe

Offices8 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Hardware or Manufacturing

Cost components

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

Revenue model

1. Aerospace Components and Systems: Sale of flight-proven space components including thermal control systems, structural panels, hold down and release mechanisms, optical payloads, and rad-hard microelectronics for satellites and launchers.
2. Defense Systems: Sale of defense products including fire control systems, electronic mortar systems, drones, loitering ammunition, and ground support equipment for military aircraft.
3. Complete Satellite Manufacturing: Design and manufacture of complete LEO satellites including integration and testing services. In 2023, opened a new factory for satellite integration.
4. Aeronautical Parts and Equipment: Manufacture of aeronautical flight parts, tooling, and ground support equipment for aircraft and engines, including slings for lifting equipment, platforms, and structures.
5. Scientific Instruments: Design, manufacture, integration and testing of high-performance electromechanical equipment for astrophysics, particle physics, and fusion research centers.
6. Robotic Falconry Services: Patented UAV-based bird strike prevention services for airports using falcon-shaped drones.
7. Kaudal R&D Tax Lease Services: Financial services financing up to 35% of R&D project costs through tax incentive transfers, helping technology companies raise funds for research projects.
8. R&D Investment Returns: Company reinvests most profits into R&D, developing proprietary technologies that generate revenue through product sales and licensing.

Go-to-market motion2 records

Distribution channels5 records

Marketing channels6 records

Core offering

ARQUIMEA designs, manufactures, and sells flight-proven aerospace and defense hardware — including space mechanisms (HDRM-REACT Shape Memory Alloy Hold Down & Release Mechanisms, deployment mechanisms, thermal blankets, thermo-structural panels, deployable radiators, radiation-hardened microelectronics), complete LEO small satellites (500W bus, MAGEC constellation), defense systems (Kronos Mini naval loitering munition, SHEPHERD-MIL surveillance UAS, fire control and electronic mortar systems), aeronautical parts and ground support equipment, and robotic falconry bird-strike prevention services. It also designs scientific instruments for astrophysics, particle physics, fusion, and deep geological storage, and offers Kaudal R&D tax-lease financing.

Product overview

ARQUIMEA Aerospace & Defence is a technology company operating in high-demanding sectors including Aerospace & Defense, Big Science, and Fintech. The company offers a diverse portfolio of proprietary technologies and products: Space sector solutions (HDRM mechanisms, deployment mechanisms, thermal blankets, thermo-structural panels, ASICS/FPGA microelectronics, deployable radiators, satcom payloads, small satellite integration, and the MAGEC secure satellite constellation); Defense products (loitering munitions including Kronos Mini naval system, SHEPHERD-MIL surveillance UAS, information and control systems for mortars and artillery); Aeronautics components (robotic falconry drones, flight parts, ground support equipment); and Deep Geological Storage sensor systems (robotic survey systems, humidity sensors, wireless data systems). Additionally, through Kaudal, the company provides R&D tax lease financing services. The portfolio is complemented by the ARQUIMEA Research Center developing disruptive technologies in AI, quantum, robotics, and biotechnology.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• Volianga: Professional suite of Radiance Fields and Splats for audiovisual production, VFX, TV and entertainment.
• Molefy Pharma
• Pulsar HRI
• Zen Biometrics
• Neural Domains
• Atlas Molecular Pharma
• EpiDisease
• Vaxdyn
• CanarySat
• Kaudal
• MAGEC
• QCIRCLE

Products and services

• HDRM REACT Hold Down & Release Mechanisms Family of 5KN, 15KN, and 35KN space-qualified non-explosive and in-field resettable Hold Down & Release Mechanisms using Shape Memory Alloys technology, designed for satellites and space applications.
• Deployment Mechanisms for Satellites
• IP & IC Design (Space-Grade Microelectronics)
• Thermal Blankets for Space
• Thermo-Structural Radiator Panels
• ASIC and FPGA Design
• Deployable Radiators
• SHEPHERD-MIL Forward Observer and Surveillance UAS
• Loitering Munition Systems Family of loitering munition systems for NATO and allied forces, including C-RPAS Systems, Man-Portable loitering systems, Multilauncher of loitering systems, and Naval loitering systems (e.g., Kronos Mini USV).
• Robotic Falconry Bird-Strike Prevention Service
• Aeronautical Flight Parts
• Ground Support Equipment (GSE)
• Satcom Payloads (Ka-Band)
• Small Satellite Integration (500W LEO Bus) Design and manufacture of high-performance Low Earth Orbit satellites, including a proprietary 500W bus suited for constellations, with integration and testing.
• MAGEC LEO Secure Communications Constellation Planned 264-satellite LEO secure communications constellation across 12 orbital planes providing global, resilient, low-latency connectivity for governments, defense, emergency services, and critical infrastructure customers.
• Kaudal R&D Tax Lease Financing Tax-lease financial service helping technology companies raise funds for R&D&I projects by transferring tax incentives to investors, financing up to 35% of R&D project costs.
• Robotic Survey Systems for Pipelines (SAM)
• Ruggedised Relative Humidity Sensors
• Wireless Systems for Data Transfer
• Kronos Mini Naval Loitering Munition 50 kg half-foiling Unmanned Surface Vehicle naval loitering munition with surface speeds exceeding 20 knots, underwater navigation at 6 knots, and advanced AI for autonomous target recognition, classification, and swarm coordination.

Quantifiable outcome

• 190+ space missions completed with flight-proven products
• +4 more outcomes

Named customers15 records

Segments5 records

Ideal customer profiles5 records

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

AI capability1 record

Feature10 records

Partnerships

17 partnerships are on record, tiered strategic, major and minor.

• Multiverse ComputingstrategicStrategic or Co-development Partner · 12 May 2026Strategic agreement to promote advanced AI in unmanned systems for defense and space applications, combining quantum computing with autonomous systems.
• SpeQtralstrategicTechnology or Integration · 30 April 2026Memorandum of Understanding for licensing and commercialization of QKD (Quantum Key Distribution) technologies in Europe, extending quantum-secure communications capabilities.
• Lanteris Space Systems (Intuitive Machines)majorTechnology or Integration · 23 March 2026Selected to manufacture structural components for 18 satellites in the Tranche 3 Tracking Layer constellation under Space Development Agency's Proliferated Combat Space Architecture for US missile defense. First participation on Lanteris model 300 LEO platform.
• Escribano Mechanical & Engineering (EM&E)majorStrategic or Co-development Partner · 11 March 2026Partnership with nine Spanish technology firms including Arquimea to develop new self-propelled artillery systems for the Spanish Army. The collaboration aims to keep Spanish technology and production capabilities domestically, reducing reliance on external suppliers.
• SpinLaunchstrategicTechnology or Integration · 4 March 2026Strategic agreement on interoperability between LEO constellations at MWC Barcelona, enabling coordination between satellite networks.
• AirbusmajorTechnology or Integration · 25 November 2025Contracted to develop engine transport container for Eurodrone program, a major European unmanned aerial vehicle development project.
• NavantiamajorStrategic or Co-development Partner · 20 November 2025Collaboration agreement to integrate ARQUIMEA loitering systems into Navantia naval platforms, strengthening capabilities in naval defense systems.
• Perseo TechworksstrategicTechnology or Integration · 4 September 2025Acquisition to strengthen naval loitering munition capabilities, enhancing defense product portfolio.
• CSIC (Spanish National Research Council)strategicStrategic or Co-development Partner · 11 July 2023Partner in QCIRCLE quantum technologies project, contributing through QTEP quantum technology platform, one of the main players in quantum technology at European level.
• University of ULM (Institute for Quantum Optics)strategicStrategic or Co-development Partner · 11 July 2023Partner in QCIRCLE quantum technologies project, contributing expertise in quantum optics research from Germany.
• UK Quantum Technology Hub Sensors and TimingstrategicStrategic or Co-development Partner · 11 July 2023Partner in QCIRCLE quantum technologies project, bringing UK quantum sensor expertise to the European Center of Excellence.
• Institute for Quantum Optics and Quantum Information (Austrian Academy of Sciences)strategicStrategic or Co-development Partner · 11 July 2023Partner in QCIRCLE quantum technologies project, providing Austrian expertise in quantum optics and quantum information.
• NSLCommmajorStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2021Joint development of LEO constellation with NSLComm offering global Ka-band connectivity for secure communications, later evolved into CanarySat.
• IberespaciostrategicTechnology or Integration · 1 January 2021Acquired company specialized in thermal control products and engineering solutions for space with over 30 years of experience, reinforcing position in space value chain.
• Ecliptic Enterprises CorporationstrategicTechnology or Integration · 1 January 2021Acquired 100% of US company in California specializing in optical systems, sensors and space avionics with over 500 cameras launched in space and 150+ missions.
• SENSIA SolutionsminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerCo-contractor alongside ARQUIMEA Research Center for Phase II development of optronic sensors for border surveillance in Civil Guard project.
• European Union (Teaming for Excellence)majorStrategic or Co-development PartnerSelected to lead QCIRCLE project under EU Teaming call, receiving co-financing of €30 million over six years, the first time Spain has been awarded this call.

Scale indicators17 records

Recent moves7 records

Expansion highlights7 records

Broad incumbents

• Airbus Defence and Space: European aerospace prime with spacecraft manufacturing, satellite payloads, and defense systems. Directly comparable as a major buyer of ARQUIMEA components (e.g., Eurodrone engine transport) and a competitor for ESA and EU defence programs.
• Hispasat: Spanish satellite operator and ARQUIMEA customer; broadly comparable in the Spanish/European space ecosystem and a potential anchor tenant or partner for the MAGEC constellation.
• L3Harris Technologies: US defense prime with space-based missile tracking and satcom capabilities; named ARQUIMEA customer for hypersonic-tracking satellites and a comparable prime operating in the same constellation architectures ARQUIMEA is targeting.
• Saab: European defense and aerospace group with surveillance, radar, and missile systems. Comparable in defense electronics and surveillance (e.g., border optronics, loitering munitions) that overlap with ARQUIMEA's defense portfolio.

Direct peers

• Thales Alenia Space: Joint venture between Thales and Leonardo manufacturing satellites, space hardware, and orbital systems. Closely comparable in space structures, thermal control, and microelectronics for ESA and institutional customers.
• SENER Aeroespacial: Spanish space and defense engineering firm developing mechanisms, avionics, and satellite subsystems. Highly comparable as a domestic Spanish peer competing for ESA and Spanish MoD contracts alongside ARQUIMEA.
• GMV: Spanish technology group providing space systems, satellite navigation, and defense solutions. Comparable in ESA-focused space systems engineering, GNSS payloads, and defense programs where ARQUIMEA also competes.
• Elecnor Deimos: Spanish space company providing satellite systems, ground segments, and mission analysis. Comparable as a peer for small-satellite integration, space mission services, and ESA programs.
• Indra: Spanish defense and IT company providing radar, electronic defense, and command-and-control systems. Comparable as a Spanish defense prime competing for NATO and Spanish Army modernization programs.

Regional players

• IberiaLSL / PLD Space (PLD Space): Spanish launch and small-satellite company. Comparable as a domestic Spanish space peer expanding in LEO constellations and component supply chains where ARQUIMEA operates.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat6 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• Xtwitter.com/ARQUIMEACenter
• YouTubeyoutube.com/channel/UCj3vCc6_snakngsJRJlr5Jw
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/arquimea-group

Compliance3 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles4 records

Subsidiaries16 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

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

M&A

Investments

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

Frequently asked questions about ARQUIMEA Aerospace & Defence