Helsing Raises $1.8 Billion at $18 Billion Valuation as Europe Backs AI Defense

3 articles · Updated · CNBC · Jul 13

$1.8 billion in new funding values Munich-based Helsing at $18 billion, marking one of Europe's biggest bets on AI-driven defense technology.
JPMorgan Chase, Lightspeed Venture Partners and Iconiq joined the round, which Helsing said was oversubscribed as investor demand outstripped the available allocation.
Helsing makes drones, underwater surveillance weapons and autonomous military software; its HX-2 drones are already being supplied to the Ukrainian army.
The company said the cash will speed development of new AI platforms for partner nations, while keeping the business predominantly European-owned.
The raise extends a broader defense-tech funding boom after U.S. rival Anduril secured $5 billion at a $61 billion valuation in May.

Sources

Left50%

Center50%

CNBC4h ago

German AI Defense Firm Helsing Raises $1.8 Billion, Valued at $18 Billion

Reuters4h ago

Europe's Helsing raises $1.8 billion, valuing defence group at $18 billion | Reuters

Marketscreener.com4h ago

Europe's Helsing raises $1.8 billion, valuing defence group at $18 billion | MarketScreener

4 Sources

Can Europe's new AI defense champions out-innovate US rivals despite deep-rooted bureaucratic hurdles?

Is the multi-billion dollar rush into AI defense creating a sustainable industry or a speculative bubble?

As AI proves decisive in Ukraine, what ethical guardrails can prevent a runaway autonomous arms race?

$1.8 Billion for Helsing: How Europe’s Top Defense AI Startup Is Shaping the Future of Military Technology

Overview

Helsing has rapidly emerged as one of Europe’s best-funded defense technology startups after closing a $1.8 billion Series E round, boosting its valuation to $18 billion. This major investment highlights the fast acceleration of Europe’s defense sector and reflects strong investor appetite for defense AI, fueled by ongoing geopolitical tensions and Europe’s push for technological sovereignty. The influx of capital not only underscores Helsing’s swift growth but also signals a broader shift in the industry, as investors move away from legacy defense technologies and focus on innovative AI-driven solutions to strengthen Europe’s security and independence.

...