German startup Helsing raises $1.8 billion, a record sum

Munich-based Helsing, a startup specializing in artificial intelligence and software for the defense sector, has achieved a landmark funding round, securing $1.8 billion. This investment shatters previous records, marking the largest sum ever raised by a German startup in a single financing round.

The significant capital injection was co-led by major US financial institutions, including JP Morgan and Goldman Sachs. Their participation underscores Helsing's perceived potential and technological prowess in the highly competitive defense industry. The latest funding round values the company at an impressive $18 billion, a valuation that rivals established industrial giants.

Since its inception in 2021, Helsing has rapidly ascended in the defense technology landscape. Its core product is AI-driven software designed to control unmanned weapon systems. The company notably supplies aerial drones to the Ukrainian armed forces. Expanding its portfolio, Helsing has also ventured into manufacturing underwater drones and is developing an unmanned combat jet.

To achieve its ambitious goals, Helsing has forged strategic partnerships with established industrial players like Airbus and Schaeffler. Notably, Spotify founder Daniel Ek has been a key early investor since 2021 and serves as chairman of the board. While the recent funding round has further internationalized Helsing's ownership structure with the entry of American financial institutions, the company states that a majority of shares remain under European ownership.

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So shall the fighter jet of the future look like: The unmanned aerial combat system CA-1 at a presentation in September 2025.