Ukraine to Receive 6,000 AI Powered Kamikaze Drones from German Firm, Helsing

Germany-based defense company Helsing will deliver 6,000 AI-powered kamikaze drones to Ukraine in 2025, enhancing Kyiv’s ability to counter Russian forces.

The company announced the deal in Munich, stating that its HX-2 combat drones will provide precision strike capabilities against tanks, armored vehicles, artillery, and command positions.

The HX-2 drone has a range of up to 100 kilometers, weighs 12 kilograms, and can reach speeds of 220 km/h. It can carry multi-purpose, anti-tank, and anti-structure ammunition, allowing it to engage a range of battlefield targets. Helsing claims the drone’s artificial intelligence enables it to operate in challenging conditions, resist electronic warfare, and autonomously adjust its final approach to the target.

This marks Helsing’s second major drone delivery to Ukraine, following the shipment of 4,000 AI-powered drones in November 2024.

Unlike the earlier German-Ukrainian HF-1 model, the HX-2 is an advanced in-house development by Helsing. The production and delivery, reportedly valued in the low three-digit million euro range, are expected to be funded by Germany’s €3 billion Ukraine aid package, which has yet to be approved. Helsing remains confident the funding will proceed under the next German government.

To support mass production, Helsing has opened its first drone factory in southern Germany, though the location remains undisclosed. The company states the facility has an initial capacity of 1,000 HX-2 drones per month, ensuring that all 6,000 units will be delivered by the end of the year.