On September 25, 2025, German defence startup Helsing revealed its AI-powered “CA-1 Europa” combat drone at a facility near Munich, joining the race to develop autonomous systems capable of operating in swarms or alongside manned fighter jets. The V-tailed drone is scheduled for its first flight in 2027 and is expected to be operational within four years.
Helsing, valued at $12 billion and Europe’s largest defence startup, plans to invest hundreds of millions of euros with European partners to produce the drone, which is designed to be far more cost-effective than traditional fighter jets. While specific costs and armaments were not disclosed, the CA-1 Europa can function independently, in groups of uncrewed vehicles, or as a “wingman” directed by piloted aircraft.
The unveiling occurred at the facilities of Grob, a light aircraft manufacturer acquired by Helsing in June, known for producing military trainers comparable in size to modern unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs). Founded in 2021 and supported by investors like Spotify CEO Daniel Ek, Helsing has raised over $1 billion. Initially focused on AI software for defence, it pivoted to drone development after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, supplying 2,000 of 4,000 ordered HF-1 drones to Ukraine and testing its HX-2 strike drone for future use.
The CA-1 Europa competes with projects like the U.S. Air Force’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft by Anduril and General Atomics and Airbus’s drone for the Eurofighter Typhoon. Despite their agility, AI-driven firms like Helsing face challenges in scaling production and mastering complex aerospace processes.
