German defence firm Helsing buys Grob aircraft to boost AI air combat tech

European defence technology leader Helsing has signed a binding agreement to acquire German aircraft manufacturer Grob Aircraft SE aiming to accelerate the development of next-generation aerial warfare technologies.

The acquisition, which is subject to regulatory approvals, brings together Helsing’s expertise in artificial intelligence (AI) and software with Grob Aircraft’s decades-long experience in composite aircraft manufacturing, Caliber.Az reports per the company’s statement.

Both companies say the partnership will enable them to test and mature advanced hardware, software, and AI systems that are critical for the future of air combat, 

“Our competencies complement each other perfectly, our growth ambitions are congruent. And we are both absolutely determined to bolster Europe's defence sovereignty,” said Dr Gundbert Scherf, Co-founder and Co-CEO of Helsing.

Grob Aircraft, headquartered in Tussenhausen, Bavaria, employs around 275 people and is known for its lightweight, durable aircraft designs used in military and general aviation. The company also operates its own airfield and maintains a solid pipeline of aircraft deliveries and training programs worldwide.

The two firms have previously collaborated on Helsing’s Cirra system demonstrating the synergy between Grob’s aircraft platforms and Helsing’s software solutions.

André Hiebeler, CEO and shareholder of Grob Aircraft, said: “Helsing’s vision and technological expertise perfectly align with our own. Their leadership in artificial intelligence and software solutions, combined with our decades of experience in composite aircraft manufacturing, creates a partnership that is uniquely positioned to redefine the future of aerospace innovation.”

The acquisition will see Grob Aircraft SE transferred from current owner H3 Aerospace GmbH & Co KG. All parties have agreed to keep the commercial terms of the deal confidential.

By integrating Grob Aircraft’s air-domain expertise into Helsing’s broader focus on land, sea, air, and space, the deal marks a major step forward in Europe’s push to advance its defence technology sovereignty.

By Sabina Mammadli