Europe’s defense startups are becoming a magnet for top AI talent

European tech workers are increasingly attracted to defense startups in their home countries rather than pursuing opportunities in the United States. This shift is driven by patriotic sentiments sparked by the Ukraine war, concerns about changing U.S. security commitments under Trump, and the exciting potential of developing AI-powered battlefield technologies. As European governments boost military spending and venture capital flows into defense innovation, the continent is experiencing a notable return of tech talent eager to contribute to Europe’s strategic autonomy and defense capabilities.

The big picture: A new wave of European tech talent is choosing to work with defense startups at home rather than pursuing traditional opportunities in Silicon Valley, reflecting deeper geopolitical shifts and changing priorities.

• Defense startups have flourished since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, with venture capital investment in European defense companies reaching $626 million in 2024.
• The number of top AI engineers working in Europe’s defense sector has increased dramatically, growing from just 144 in 2014 to 1,700 in 2024.

What’s driving the trend: A combination of patriotic motivation and cutting-edge technological challenges is attracting talent to European defense companies.

• The war in Ukraine and concerns about shifting U.S. security priorities have sparked a desire among European tech workers to contribute to their continent’s defense capabilities.
• The application of artificial intelligence in battlefield contexts offers technically challenging work that appeals to engineers interested in making a meaningful impact.

What they’re saying: Tech leaders emphasize that mission and purpose are powerful motivators alongside compensation for many in the sector.

• “There are people that are really mission-focused, and what they want to do in their life is to have an impact and not only earn a big salary,” said Loïc Mougeolle, CEO of Paris-based battlefield AI provider Comand AI.
• “Many of the world’s top AI researchers come from Europe. Some went to the U.S., but many are returning to work on European sovereignty, resilience, and long-term value creation,” explained Jeannette zu Fürstenberg of venture capital firm General Catalyst.

Behind the numbers: The European Union is planning massive investment in defense technology, aiming to mobilize 800 billion euros as governments respond to increased security threats.

• French battlefield AI provider Comand AI raised $10 million in December funding, while Germany’s Alpine Eagle secured 10 million euros in March for counter-drone technology.
• Deep cuts to U.S. research funding under the Trump administration have further incentivized European scientists to return home or remain in Europe.