Munich-based defence technology startup Helsing has raised $1.8 billion in a Series E funding round, lifting its valuation to $18 billion and reinforcing its position as Europe’s best-funded defence technology company.
The latest investment follows last week’s $1.2 billion funding round for German drone manufacturer Quantum Systems, which more than doubled that company’s valuation to approximately $8 billion. Together, the two transactions highlight growing investor confidence in Europe’s rapidly expanding defence technology sector.
The funding also comes as European governments continue to increase defence spending after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine underscored the strategic importance of real-time battlefield intelligence, autonomous systems and advanced targeting technologies.
The Series E round attracted a diverse group of international investors, reflecting the growing global interest in European defence innovation. Participants included U.S.-based venture capital firms Dragoneer Investment Group, Lightspeed Venture Partners, General Catalyst, Iconiq and Disruptive. In addition, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan and Canadian pension fund CPP Investments joined the funding round.
Founded in 2021, Helsing initially developed artificial intelligence software that helps defence organisations analyse battlefield data and improve operational decision-making. Since then, the company has expanded its portfolio to include autonomous strike drones, underwater surveillance systems and military aircraft applications, strengthening its presence across multiple defence technology segments.
Furthermore, Helsing has secured contracts with several European governments and defence companies. The startup also supplies drones to Ukraine through programmes supported by German government funding, further expanding its role in Europe’s evolving defence ecosystem.
The latest funding positions Helsing to accelerate product development, expand its defence technology capabilities and strengthen partnerships with governments and military organisations. As geopolitical tensions continue to drive defence modernisation, the company remains well positioned to capitalise on rising demand for AI-powered defence solutions across Europe and beyond.
