Qinetiq looks set to build on solid successes in the U.S. market with further acquisitions in the country. Recent end-of-year results have shown good growth in the U.S. companies already in the Qinetiq fold, with particular strength in the robotics sector, led by the Talon bomb disposal robot used in Iraq and Afghanistan. Qinetiq has also purchased companies in Australia, where the defense procurement environment is similar to that in the UK. Defense remains Qinetiq’s priority, but it also pays close attention to related customer groups in security and environmental sustainment. In the latter field, Qinetiq is heavily involved in research aimed at reducing fuel burn and noise through the study of the science of airflow and wing design. It also is assisting the UK Ministry of Defence to reduce its emissions. Amid some speculation concerning foreign investment in Qinetiq, the MoD remains the largest shareholder, and there are limits on the amount of ownership that corporate investors can hold. Furthermore, the MoD’s “golden share” remains firmly in UK government hands.