BAE Systems is a global leader in advanced defence, aerospace, and security solutions. Established as a technology-driven company, it employs approximately 90,500 people across more than 40 countries. Its core mission is to deliver military capability that protects national security, people, and critical infrastructure, leveraging leading-edge technology and innovation. The company works closely with customers and local partners in various regions to develop, engineer, manufacture, and support defense products and systems tailored to meet evolving security challenges.
Registered on the EU Transparency Register since December 6, 2022, BAE Systems primarily targets EU policy discussions on defence and security industrial issues and programmes. The company actively promotes its own interests and those of its members, particularly in aerospace, security, and defence sectors. With a strong presence in principal markets including the US, UK, Saudi Arabia, and Australia, BAE Systems holds leading positions on various military programmes such as the F-35 Lightning II and the Typhoon combat aircraft.
The company’s lobbying activities within the EU focus on influencing policy frameworks and funding that impact defence and security industries, ensuring alignment with strategic growth opportunities and operational needs. BAE Systems also participates in defence trade shows and conferences as part of its communications strategy within the EU context.
On the organizational side, BAE Systems operates an EU office in Brussels, working from 4 rue de la Presse, with its head office based in London, United Kingdom. It maintains affiliations with key industry associations such as the Aerospace, Security, and Defence Industries Association of Europe, leveraging this networking to enhance its influence and collaboration at the EU level.
The financial aspect of BAE Systems’ EU lobbying is transparent within the register, reporting expenditures between €50,000 and €99,999 for the 2022 closed financial year. The company employs a modest team of lobbyists for its EU engagement, declaring two lobbyists with an aggregate full-time equivalent of one, none of whom hold European Parliament accreditations.
BAE Systems’ lobbying efforts are accompanied by an emphasis on innovative defence technologies, naval systems, electronic systems, and cyber intelligence capabilities. Its strategy is proactive in securing growth through acquisitions and investment in research and innovation, underpinning its role as a premier international defence and aerospace corporation.
