Critical Software and Airbus created the ‘Critical FlyTech’ project, which aims to develop embedded software and services for aerospace applications for Airbus and its subsidiaries.
“This joint venture will be 51% owned by Airbus and 49% by Critical Software”, the companies informed this Monday, the 24th.
In a statement sent to newsrooms, it is explained that this partnership reinforces Airbus’ investment in Portugal, “combining its great aerospace experience with Critical Software’s proven competence in software engineering embedded with critical security”.
“Critical FlyTech, with headquarters in Coimbra and an office in Lisbon, will reinforce Airbus’ competitive leadership in the aerospace sector through the design and development of high-functioning assurance and certifiable software solutions, for critical systems and missions, in various domains, including avionics systems, cabin systems and connectivity solutions”, they described.
Led by Ricardo Armas, Critical FlyTech will begin activity at the beginning of 2026, with a team of 120 employees, expected to reach 300 employees by the end of 2028.
“By integrating Airbus’ specialized ecosystem and global presence, this team will bring together long-term strategic capabilities that are fundamental to safety, performance and certification across all platforms, in line with the increasing complexity and digitalization of aerospace systems.”
For Critical Software’s chairman, Gonçalo Quadros, this partnership represents a new chapter in building “a better and safer world”.
“Critical FlyTech reflects everything that Critical Software has always stood for, the conviction that excellent engineering, curiosity and courage can have a lasting impact. Together with Airbus, we are turning this conviction into reality and creating technology that not only flies but also inspires”, he said.
For Quadros, by combining the forces of Airbus and Critical Software, “a new center of excellence in high-assurance aerospace software” is being created.
“Our mission is clear: to provide technological solutions that meet the most rigorous criteria of safety, reliability and innovation, and that shape the future of aviation, space and defense”, highlighted Ricardo Armas, who will take on the role of CEO of Critical FlyTech.
Marc Fischer, senior vice president for Engineering – Cabin & Cargo at Airbus, highlighted that Airbus values partnerships with companies that share a transformative vision of history.
“This joint venture allows us to take full advantage of Critical Software’s agility and experience to strengthen our software base embedded in a context of increasing aerospace digitalization. Critical FlyTech symbolizes this joint ambition and reaffirms the commitment of both entities to aerospace innovation”, he stated.
Completion of the transaction is subject to customary conditions, including regulatory authorizations.
Founded in 1998, Critical Software is a technology multinational specializing in software solutions and engineering services to support critical systems oriented to the security, mission and business of companies.
It operates in high-security sectors, such as space, aeronautics, and defense, and employs more than 1,400 people in four countries (Portugal, United Kingdom, USA, Germany).
Airbus leads sustainable aerospace for “a safe and united world” by constantly innovating to provide efficient and technologically advanced solutions for defense and connected services.
In commercial aviation, Airbus designs and manufactures modern, economically efficient aircraft and associated services. Airbus is also a European leader in space systems, defense and security.
In the helicopter division, Airbus provides efficient civil and military helicopter solutions and services around the world.