Startup investors are betting on war

In partnership with

Startup Feature
Helsing Secures $5 Billion for AI Warfare

Helsing, a Munich-based defence AI startup, is rapidly gaining traction as one of Europe’s most well-funded military tech companies. Founded in 2021, it develops artificial intelligence software to enhance battlefield awareness and support real-time decision-making. In July 2024, the startup raised €450 million, bringing its valuation to €4.95 billion.

With European governments increasing defence budgets and prioritizing AI-driven military modernization, Helsing has secured major contracts to integrate its technology into key defence programs.

AI-Powered Defence and Government Contracts

Helsing’s develops software that processes real-time data from sensors, drones, and weapon systems to improve military response times and strategic planning. The startup is working with major European defence contractors and governments to integrate its software into key military projects.

So far, the defence startup has secured a contract to upgrade the German Eurofighter’s electronic warfare system in partnership with Saab. It is also involved in the Future Combat Air System, a joint project between Germany, France, and Spain to develop next-generation air combat capabilities. Helsing recently expanded into Estonia with a €70 million investment to enhance NATO’s eastern defence infrastructure.

In December 2024, Helsing introduced the HX-2, an autonomous strike drone designed to engage artillery and armored units up to 100 kilometers away. Its AI software enables multiple drones to operate in coordinated swarms under a single operator. Following its launch, Ukraine immediately ordered 10,000 units, driving Helsing to rapidly scale production to meet demand.

Growing Valuation and Investor Support

Helsings rapid growth sparked by security concerns over Russia has drawn significant investment. In July 2024, the startup raised €450 million in a Series C funding round, bringing its valuation to nearly €5 billion. The round was led by U.S.-based General Catalyst, marking a growing trend of American investors backing European defence startups. Other investors include Accel, Lightspeed Venture Partners, Greenoaks, and Swedish defence group Saab.

The increasing role of AI in defence is driving governments to rely more on private sector innovation. In the U.S., this trend has been well established with companies like Palantir and Anduril, which together hold a valuation exceeding $250 billion. Now, Europe is following a similar path, with startups like Helsing attracting billions in funding as governments modernize their military capabilities.

The European Union has committed €200 billion to AI-driven defence projects, with Helsing among the key beneficiaries. The startup now plans to use its latest funding to expand research, develop AI-powered drones, and strengthen NATO-aligned defence capabilities.