Ekinops Acquires Chimere for Unified SASE Offering

Ekinops has solidified its position as a singular European provider of comprehensive Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solutions through its acquisition of cybersecurity innovator Chimere. This strategic move, expected to finalize before March 31, 2026, integrates Chimere's advanced universal Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) technology into Ekinops' existing portfolio, creating a unique single-vendor offering for both networking and security.

The acquisition of Chimere, a French startup specializing in next-generation network access, marks a significant milestone in Ekinops' 'Bridge' strategic plan. This initiative aims to transition the company from a telecommunications equipment manufacturer to a holistic platform provider. By incorporating Chimere's ZTNA capabilities, which offer a modern alternative to traditional VPNs and firewalls, Ekinops now uniquely provides Software-Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN), Security Service Edge (SSE), and universal ZTNA with an on-premises deployment option. This comprehensive suite addresses the escalating demand for integrated, flexible security and networking infrastructure.

The SASE market is experiencing rapid expansion, driven by the widespread adoption of cloud services and the proliferation of remote workforces. Traditional security models, often reliant on distinct network and security components, are proving insufficient for contemporary enterprise needs. Ekinops' ability to deliver a unified SASE framework, crucially including on-premises deployment flexibility, directly targets a critical market gap. This is particularly relevant for organizations, including government entities, that prioritize data sovereignty and regulatory compliance by maintaining sensitive infrastructure within their own facilities.

Chimere's core technology champions the Zero Trust security paradigm, a fundamental shift from perimeter-based defenses. This model operates on the principle of continuous verification for all users and devices, regardless of their location, significantly enhancing security posture in today's complex threat environment. The integration of this robust ZTNA solution, alongside Ekinops' existing SD-WAN and SSE offerings, creates a powerful, end-to-end security fabric.

This acquisition follows Ekinops' earlier purchase of Olfeo in May 2025, which bolstered its web security and content filtering services. The combined capabilities of these strategic acquisitions position Ekinops to effectively compete in the dynamic SASE arena. While the financial impact on Ekinops' 2026 statements is anticipated to be minimal, the strategic value is substantial, enhancing its competitive edge in the European market.

Lionel Chmilewsky, Chairman and CEO of Ekinops, emphasized that Chimere's technology completes their SASE vision. Guillaume-Alexandre Chaizy, CEO of Chimere, expressed excitement about joining Ekinops and accelerating the adoption of universal ZTNA. This consolidation offers a compelling value proposition for businesses seeking a unified, secure, and adaptable network infrastructure solution.