Estonia partners with Archangel on defence technology
The Estonian Defence Forces and European venture capital firm Archangel have signed a three-year agreement to connect military needs with technology companies.
Archangel and the Estonian Defence Forces have signed a three-year cooperation agreement to strengthen links between defence needs, industry, and capital. The partnership aims to accelerate the development and testing of defence technologies by connecting military users more closely with companies and investors. The agreement was formalized at the ABCD Conference.
Roles and contributions
Under the agreement, Archangel will engage with companies and investment opportunities in the Baltic defence technology sector. The European early-stage venture capital fund, which operates between Estonia and the UK, focuses on defence and security technology. It invests in startups developing technologies such as autonomous systems, AI software, cybersecurity, and next-generation communications.
The Estonian Defence Forces will contribute its perspective on defence needs and the development of relevant technologies. The military branch will share insight into operational needs and technology development requirements. The parties will work to support opportunities for companies to test and develop solutions in Estonia where appropriate.
Statements from leaders
Nicholas Nelson, the Founder and Managing Partner of Archangel, stated that his firm was founded to support the development of Europe’s defence technology ecosystem. He said working closely with the Defence Forces helps Archangel better understand the needs of users and support companies as they develop and scale.
Major Ivo Peets, the Commander of the Estonian Defence Forces’ Force Transformation Command, noted that cooperation between the Defence Forces and the defence industry helps build a shared understanding of needs, technology and opportunities. He welcomed the chance to work with Archangel and to strengthen the links between innovation, investment and the development of defence capabilities.
Broader defence innovation context
The collaboration is intended to help connect defence innovation with the capital and expertise needed to bring technologies from development towards adoption. It aims to contribute to the development of the wider European defence ecosystem. Archangel works with defence-sector stakeholders to support product development, testing, and access to procurement networks. The partnership reflects growing efforts to align defence innovation with venture capital as European security priorities intensify. The arrangement is intended to connect defense users more closely with companies and investors as new technologies move from development toward adoption.
