Hensoldt, Helsing to Jointly Develop Autonomous Combat Aircraft

Our Bureau - : Feb 13, 2026 - : 11:33 pm

Hensoldt and Helsing have entered a strategic partnership to advance modern European defence technologies. The collaboration focuses on a sovereign technological architecture designed to enhance the security of Western nations amidst shifting geopolitical dynamics. The primary output of this agreement...

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The primary output of this agreement is the development of the CA-1 Europa, an AI-supported autonomous combat aircraft. This project aims to secure European technological leadership by utilising entirely national supply chains and technology.
Technical Integration and System Capabilities

The CA-1 Europa will be outfitted with a comprehensive suite of Hensoldt sensor technology, including radar, optronics, self-protection systems, and electromagnetic warfare tools. Central to the aircraft’s operation is the MDOcore (Multi-Domain Operations Core) software suite, which acts as the digital backbone for data fusion and networking.

When integrated with Helsing’s Centaur AI agent, the combat drone will be capable of executing missions autonomously and processing information securely across multiple dimensions. These systems allow the aircraft to operate within a networked environment and manage large datasets independently. The partnership follows a strict division of labour, with each firm contributing within its specific area of expertise; Hensoldt provides decades of experience in multi-domain sensor integration, while Helsing provides the artificial intelligence required for autonomous control and data processing.
Strategic Context and Future Objectives

The collaboration addresses a contemporary military requirement for systems capable of automated data collection and processing within condensed timeframes. Beyond the CA-1 Europa, both companies are currently partnered with the Norwegian Kongsberg Group to establish a sovereign European satellite constellation for reconnaissance and surveillance, scheduled for completion by 2029.

Demonstrations of the joint technologies are expected to commence in the coming months. These trials will be conducted in coordination with partners and customers to transition the systems from testing to operational use.

“The future of modern defence systems lies in the intelligent and networked interaction of sensor technology and artificial intelligence. We share a common goal with Helsing: to responsibly develop innovative technologies and thus contribute to Europe's security policy capabilities,” said Oliver Dörre, CEO of Hensoldt.

Dr. Gundbert Scherf, co-founder and co-CEO of Helsing said: “Our deterrence requires sovereign air superiority. With the CA-1, we are making a clear offer for credible European deterrence. The sovereignty and superiority of our armed forces depend on our systems being developed and produced by national industry champions. The partnership between Helsing and Hensoldt is a joining of forces between two national champions. We are united by our commitment to massive investment in future technologies.”

Hensoldt / Helsing / Ca-1-europa /

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