German AI Drone Maker Helsing Starts Serial Production for Ukraine

German defence startup Helsing SE has begun serial production of its AI‑controlled assault drone HX‑2 in a secret facility in southern Germany. The 12‑kg drone, costing about €17,500 per unit, can operate autonomously even under GPS and radio jamming. Early test deliveries have already reached Ukrainian forces, and the company expects to supply thousands more under a contract initially worth €269 million that could rise to €1.46 billion.

The production line employs roughly 100 staff, many from the automotive sector, and is designed to be quickly dismantled and relocated if security threats arise. In addition to the HX‑2, Helsing is developing a larger unmanned combat aircraft, the CA‑1 Europa, slated for service entry around 2029. The project has drawn attention from the German Bundestag, which is reviewing spending and reliability concerns amid a broader expansion of Germany’s defence industry to support Ukraine.