Helsing Raises $1.8 Billion Series E to Expand European AI Defense Capabilities
German defense technology company Helsing has secured $1.8 billion in a Series E funding round, lifting its valuation to $18 billion. The investment ranks among the largest private funding rounds in the European defense technology sector.
Munich-based defense technology company Helsing has completed a $1.8 billion Series E financing round, reaching a post-money valuation of $18 billion as investor interest in European defense technology continues to grow. The company said the new capital will accelerate development of artificial intelligence platforms and autonomous capabilities for European and allied armed forces.
The financing attracted both existing and new investors, including Dragoneer Investment Group, Lightspeed Venture Partners, Iconiq, Goldman Sachs Alternatives, JPMorganChase, CPP Investments, General Catalyst, Plural, StepStone, and Disruptive. According to the company, demand for the round exceeded the available allocation, while Helsing remains predominantly European-owned despite broad international participation.
Founded in 2021, Helsing initially specialized in AI software designed to process battlefield data before expanding into autonomous systems and hardware. Its portfolio now includes autonomous strike drones, AI applications for military aviation, and underwater surveillance platforms developed for European defense customers.
The company has secured contracts with several European governments, including Germany, Estonia, the United Kingdom, and Ukraine. It has also supported drone deliveries to Ukraine through programs backed by the German government.
The latest investment follows a period of rapid growth for Europe's defense technology sector as governments increase military spending and seek greater technological sovereignty. Helsing stated that the new funding will be used to further integrate AI-enabled capabilities into the defense systems of partner nations across Europe and allied countries.
