Airolit Secures Crucial Funding to Expand Advanced Nordic Defense Drone Operations Across Europe and NATO

Airolit, a Swedish drone company based in Mölndal, is experiencing rapid growth fueled by increasing global demand for advanced drone systems, particularly within the defense sector. Founded in 2017, the company has distinguished itself by developing drone platforms that function reliably under harsh Nordic and Arctic conditions, including extreme cold, rain, and snow, making them suitable for various applications such as radar surveillance, camera monitoring, fiber installation, and mobile mast capabilities.

To support its ambitious expansion plans amid a growing order book, Airolit successfully obtained financing through a loan from SEB, facilitated by guarantees covering 75% of the bank’s risk provided by the Swedish Export Credit Agency (EKN). This collaboration with EKN was vital due to Airolit’s early-stage company status and lack of traditional collateral, which previously made bank financing challenging.

CEO Claes Kjölhede highlighted the importance of this financing in maintaining high service levels and accelerating product development. "The support from EKN enables us to meet the increasing needs of our customers and enhance our production capacity," Kjölhede said.

With defense budgets rising globally and modern drone systems becoming integral to military spending, Airolit aims to leverage this momentum to strengthen its international presence. The company has set its sights on expanding into Europe with a focus on NATO member countries over the next five years, aspiring to establish itself as a market leader in the advanced defense drone niche.

Rickard Rosengren, corporate advisor at SEB, noted, "Airolit meets many of the bank’s financing criteria, demonstrating strong leadership and significant growth potential, which made this financing arrangement feasible."

The partnership with EKN and SEB not only provides the capital needed for Airolit to grow but also reduces financial risk, facilitating export financing that supports Swedish technological advancements in defense. This strategy is expected to solidify Airolit’s market position while enabling continued innovation and production scaling.