Defense Startup Helsing Buys Grob Aircraft to Bring AI to Planes

Helsing, Europe’s most valuable defense startup, has agreed to acquire German manufacturer Grob Aircraft to develop artificial intelligence technologies for air combat.

Grob Aircraft, based in Tussenhausen outside of Munich, builds lightweight and durable aircraft using composite materials that are “ideal as a platform” for Helsing’s AI systems, Helsing said in a statement on Wednesday. The companies did not share the terms.

Helsing, which raised money last year at a €5 billion ($5.7 billion) valuation, is Europe’s most high-profile defense startup as the continent increases its military spending in response to Russia’s war in Ukraine and wavering US support ...