German AI defense technology startup Helsing is seeking huge funding, marking a significant increase in venture capital interest in the defense technology sector. The company is in talks with Silicon Valley investors including Accel and Lightspeed Venture Partners, aiming to raise nearly $500 million at a valuation of $4.5 billion, which would make it one of the most valuable AI startups in Europe. Founded in 2021, Helsing focuses on artificial intelligence-based defense software. Its technology has been applied to Ukrainian drone projects and has established partnerships with internationally renowned defense contractors such as Rheinmetall, Saab and Airbus to jointly develop manned drones. and AI technology for unmanned systems.
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Helsing was founded in 2021 and focuses on artificial intelligence-based defense software. The company uses artificial intelligence to process large amounts of data generated by sensors and weapons systems to provide real-time battlefield intelligence and help military decision-making. The company's software is also being used to develop artificial intelligence capabilities for Ukrainian drones. Helsing has signed cooperation agreements with some of Europe's leading defense contractors, including Germany's Rheinmetall and Sweden's Saab, to integrate artificial intelligence into existing platforms, such as fighter jets. The startup is also working with Airbus to develop artificial intelligence technology that will be used in manned and unmanned systems.
Venture capitalists have long been wary of investing in defense technology companies, but that attitude is changing quickly. Tensions between the United States and Europe have prompted countries to increase defense spending.
This year, NATO began investing its new €1 billion "innovation fund" in European technology companies. Europe is also "catching up very quickly" with U.S. investments in defense and dual-use technology, as evidenced by the war in Ukraine.
Highlight:
- Helsing is in discussions with Accel and Lightspeed Venture Partners to raise nearly $500 million at a valuation of $4.5 billion.
- The company will become one of the most valuable artificial intelligence startups in Europe, demonstrating the growing interest in defense technology companies from traditional venture investors.
- Venture capitalists have long been wary of investing in defense technology companies, but that attitude is changing rapidly.
Helsing's successful financing case not only reflects the huge potential of AI technology in the defense field, but also indicates the continued attention and investment of venture capital in the field of defense technology in the future. This huge financing will further promote Helsing’s development and promote Europe’s leading position in the field of artificial intelligence defense technology.