European AI Defense Startup Helsing Raises $1.8 Billion in Major Funding Round

European AI Defense Startup Helsing Raises $1.8 Billion in Major Funding Round

Helsing said Monday it raised $1.8 billion in new funding, giving the Munich-headquartered defense technology startup an $18 billion valuation as it builds out AI-powered military systems, including drones, underwater surveillance weapons and autonomous software for defense applications.

The round included both new and existing backers, with JPMorgan Chase, Lightspeed Venture Partners and Iconiq among the investors. Helsing said the fundraise drew more interest than it could accommodate, pointing to rising investor appetite for defense companies built around artificial intelligence and software-defined military systems.

“Investor demand significantly exceeded the available allocation, reflecting strong and growing confidence in AI-driven and software-defined defence technology,” Helsing said in a press release.

Helsing presents itself as a combined hardware and software platform for defense customers. Its work spans physical systems, such as drones and underwater surveillance weapons, as well as the AI and autonomous software used to operate them.

The company has also leaned into its position as a European defense technology supplier. Its HX-2 drones are among the systems being provided to Ukraine’s army, and Helsing has benefited from Europe’s push to develop more sovereign capabilities across technology and defense.

“The company remains predominantly European-owned, underscoring its deep roots in Europe,” Helsing said.

The funding gives Helsing more capital to expand its defense AI ambitions at a time when private investors are backing a new generation of military technology startups. In the U.S., Anduril raised $5 billion at a $61 billion valuation in May, while Shield AI and autonomous shipmaker Saronic are among other companies that have recently attracted funding.

Helsing said the new capital will “accelerate Helsing’s mission to develop and integrate entirely new AI platforms into the defense capabilities of its growing number of partner nations.”

This analysis is based on reporting from CNBC.

Image courtesy of Helsing.

This article was generated with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy and quality.

Last updated: July 13, 2026

About this article: This article was generated with AI assistance and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure it follows our editorial standards for accuracy and independence. We maintain strict fact-checking protocols and cite all sources.

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