A European AI defense company, Helsing, has announced the introduction of its new strike drone, the HX-2, which is currently in production and boasts technology that has already been utilized in conflict zones such as Ukraine. The HX-2 is distinguished by its advanced artificial intelligence capabilities, enabling it to perform full electronic warfare functions and maintain jamming resistance, drawing from technology that has been rigorously developed and tested in real-world scenarios.
The HX-2 features a unique x-wing design and is powered by electric motors, allowing it to engage targets from distances of up to 100 kilometers (approximately 62 miles). One of the standout capabilities of the drone is its ability to operate in swarms; multiple units can be coordinated by a single human operator, particularly when utilized in conjunction with Helsing’s Altra reconnaissance and strike software.
Gundbert Scherf, co-founder of Helsing, emphasized the necessity of such technology in modern warfare, stating that “as electronic warfare has threatened to erode the ability to act,” the HX-2 provides a level of autonomy while ensuring complete human control and oversight. This design philosophy seeks to balance the advantages of automation with crucial human judgment on the battlefield.
Notably, the HX-2 is designed for mass production at a more cost-effective rate compared to traditional military platforms. Niklas Köhler, another co-founder of the company, highlighted the innovation behind the HX-2, suggesting that it represents a new category of “smart effectors” that harmonize mass, autonomy, and precision. He asserted that individual HX-2 drones are capable of reliably engaging armored targets, even in highly contested environments.
Furthermore, Köhler suggested that when deployed strategically along borders, the HX-2 could act as a formidable counter-invasion mechanism against hostile land forces. This assertion aligns with NATO’s pressing demand for enhanced technological solutions to fortify defense capabilities, particularly in response to heightened tensions along its eastern flank. Scherf remarked that the HX-2 meets this urgent requirement, positioning it as a critical tool for modern military strategy and defense initiatives.
