AI Startup Helsing Is Now Making Attack Drones For Europe (1)

Helsing became one of Europe’s most valuable startups by building artificial intelligence software for drones and jet fighters. Now it’s making weapons of its own.

The company, most recently valued at €5 billion ($5.27 billion), has developed an attack drone, called HX-2, that can carry ammunition and navigate without the need for a pilot’s instructions or GPS. Ultimately, Helsing imagines that escalating military tension will drive demand for thousands of these unmanned aircraft in Ukraine and along Europe’s border with Russia.

Torsten Reil, Helsing’s co-chief executive officer, said in an interview that connecting these drones via software to other ...