On Thursday, German defence startup Helsing launched its new autonomous combat drone, marking its entry into the growing competition to develop remote-piloted systems.

The “Europa” drone is designed to operate in coordinated swarms with other drones or work alongside manned aircraft, a capability seen as central to the future of aerial warfare .

Unveiling a full-size model of the angular, V-tailed drone at a factory outside Munich, Helsing said the “CA-1 Europa” would stage a first flight in 2027 and become available for military operations within the following four years.

Helsing is the latest military tech firm to make a pitch to become a primary manufacturer of weapon systems in competition with heavyweight arms companies, reflecting the increasing role of AI and pressing demands

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