CIA-backed investor helped top German drones firm break into U.S.

MUNICH – German drone maker Quantum Systems gained an early foothold in the United States with help from CIA-linked investor In-Q-Tel (IQT), its co-CEO said, highlighting how U.S. capital and networks continue to shape Europe’s emerging defense companies.

Sven Kruck said that U.S. investors including IQT helped open doors in Washington and win work with the Central Intelligence Agency and Federal Bureau of Investigation.

The comments, which are being reported for the first time, underscore the importance of U.S. investors and contacts to some European defense startups even as governments across the continent push for greater independence from Washington.