In a landmark move for European defence innovation, Helsing, Europe’s leading AI defence company, has signed an agreement to acquire the Bavarian aircraft manufacturer Grob Aircraft SE. The acquisition reinforces a long-standing collaboration and brings together two highly complementary capabilities: advanced artificial intelligence and composite aircraft engineering.
The goal is clear: to accelerate the development of next-generation air combat solutions at the intersection of software, hardware, and autonomy.
Proven Collaboration – Now a Strategic Alliance
Helsing and Grob Aircraft have already worked together on integrating AI into aviation platforms. Grob’s aircraft served as testbeds for Cirra, Helsing’s cutting-edge electronic warfare software that enables real-time threat assessment and decision-making. With this acquisition, what began as successful cooperation evolves into a full strategic alliance.
“We are deepening a trusted partnership with Grob Aircraft. This acquisition unites two companies with shared values, complementary strengths, and a clear mission: to reinforce Europe’s technological and industrial sovereignty,”
said Dr. Gundbert Scherf, Co-CEO and Co-Founder of Helsing.
“Helsing’s vision and deep tech expertise are a perfect match for our DNA. With this partnership, we’re redefining what innovation means in the aerospace and defence sector,”
added André Hiebeler, Managing Partner of Grob Aircraft.
Technology Synergy: AI Meets Composites
Grob Aircraft is renowned for its expertise in lightweight composite aircraft, serving military and civilian training programmes around the world. With its own airfield and a strong delivery pipeline, the company’s platforms are ideally suited for AI integration. Helsing brings deep capabilities in electronic warfare, autonomy, and scalable software solutions across land, sea, air, and space.
The acquisition is expected to unlock new levels of innovation in airborne systems, combining structural engineering, avionics, and intelligent software into adaptable combat platforms.
Strengthening Bavaria – and Beyond
The move aligns with the Bavarian government’s goal to foster leadership in aerospace and AI innovation. Helsing’s planned investments in Tussenhausen will create new high-tech jobs and reinforce Bavaria’s position as a hub for defence technology. While rooted in Germany, the strategic ambitions of the new partnership are clearly global.
The acquisition is subject to standard regulatory approvals. All parties have agreed to keep the terms of the transaction confidential.
