Open Accessibility Menu

Monthly investment news and growth insights — straight to your inbox. Sign up to our newsletter.

News

BGF completes successful exit from counter-drone technology leader OSL

Following a period of significant growth and international expansion, OSL has been acquired by global defence leader Terma A/S.

27 November 2025

BGF has completed a successful exit from its investment in Operational Solutions Limited (OSL), a leading provider of counter-drone and airspace management technologies headquartered in Reading. The business has been acquired by Terma A/S, a global provider of mission-critical solutions for defence, aerospace, and security. The deal marks another strong outcome for BGF’s portfolio of pioneering technology companies.

Since BGF’s initial investment in 2021, OSL has achieved significant growth and established itself as a market leader in counter-drone detection and management solutions. Its technology is deployed across multiple critical environments, including Heathrow Airport and Wembley Stadium, providing advanced situational awareness and safeguarding airspace security.

With BGF’s support, OSL has expanded its workforce from 50 to more than 100 employees, strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of a Chief Operating Officer, and accelerated research and development. The business also leads Project HADO®, a consortium initiative designed to advance the commercial adoption of autonomous drone systems in high-intensity environments.

BGF’s growth capital investment enabled OSL to scale its commercial operations, enhance its data and software capabilities, and expand into new international markets. The partnership supported CEO Mark Legh-Smith and his team in establishing OSL as a trusted global player in counter-drone technology, working with some of the world’s most demanding infrastructure and event operators.

BGF’s partnership has been instrumental in helping us scale rapidly and expand into new markets. Their support has allowed us to invest in R&D, strengthen our leadership team, and deliver cutting-edge technologies that are shaping the future of counter-drone operations. I’m immensely proud of what we’ve achieved together and excited for the next phase of OSL’s journey with our new partner.
Mark Legh-Smith
CEO at OSL

Jack Teasdale, Investor at BGF, said: “It has been a privilege to support Mark and the OSL team as they’ve built a market-leading business in one of the most exciting and fast-evolving technology sectors. Their commitment to innovation and operational excellence has set new standards for airspace management and safety. This exit is another example of how BGF’s patient capital model can help ambitious businesses scale and realise their potential.”

The exit from OSL follows a series of successful realisations for BGF in recent months, including BB7, Monodraught, Brisant Secure, Braidwater Group, Panthera Biopartners, and OrganOx, reinforcing the strength of BGF’s long-term model and partnership approach.

Latest insights