Helsing has become one of Europe’s most valuable startups by creating artificial intelligence software for drones and fighter jets. Today, she makes her own weapons.
The company, recently valued at 5 billion euros ($5.27 billion), has developed an attack drone, called HX-2, capable of carrying munitions and navigating without the need for pilot instructions or GPS. Ultimately, Helsing imagines that escalating military tensions will lead to demand for thousands of these unmanned aircraft in Ukraine and along Europe’s border with Russia.