The Helsing Trinity: Brains Behind the Bots

Helsing was founded in 2021 by Torsten Reil, Dr. Gundbert Scherf, and Niklas Köhler, each bringing a unique blend of expertise to the company.

Dr. Gundbert Scherf 

Dr. Gundbert Scherf has an impressive academic background, with a diverse focus on economic policy and political economy. He earned his Dr. rer. pol. (Doctorate) from Freie Universität Berlin, concentrating on economic and political frameworks. Prior to that, he completed an M.Phil in the same discipline from the University of Cambridge, graduating with first-class honors as a Marie Curie Fellow. Dr. Scherf spent over a decade at McKinsey, rising to the position of Partner. (Dr. Gundbert Scherf)

His work involved high-level strategic consulting, particularly in defense and technology transformation.  He also served as a Special Advisor, where he spearheaded major projects, including the Defense Acquisition Reform Project and the establishment of the German Cybersecurity and Information Domain Command. A respected thought leader, Dr. Scherf was named a European Young Leader by Friends of Europe in 2022 and featured in “Top 40 under 40” lists by Capital Magazine for his contributions to government and the private sector.

Torsten Reil

Torsten Reil is a visionary entrepreneur and an influential figure in the fields of artificial intelligence and defense technology. He holds a Master’s degree in Evolutionary and Adaptive Systems from the University of Sussex, where he graduated with distinction. He pursued advanced studies at the University of Oxford, focusing on complexity in biological systems, though he chose to leave his Ph.D. program to pursue entrepreneurial ambitions. His journey into entrepreneurship started with the founding of NaturalMotion, a technology and games company spun out of Oxford. (Torsten Reil)

Niklas Köhler

Niklas Köhler possesses a strong academic foundation in physics, having earned his Master of Science degree from Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München. Before founding Helsing, Niklas was the Founder and CEO of Hellsicht, a company that has since been integrated into Helsing GmbH. Niklas served as Coordinator of AI for Precision Medicine at Helmholtz Zentrum München. In this role, he applied AI to the field of medicine, particularly in enhancing precision diagnostics and treatment pathways. Notably, he was a prizewinner in the Data Science Bowl 2017, where he ranked 7th among nearly 10,000 competitors globally and 1st among German teams. (Niklas Köhler)

The Founding Story

Helsing was founded with a clear and powerful mission: to protect democratic values and open societies. The founders, established the company in 2021, driven by a shared belief that safeguarding freedom and democracy is a civic duty. They envisioned a future where advanced defense technologies, rooted in ethical principles, would help protect the rights and freedoms of current and future generations. The founders recognized the urgent need for a dedicated software company capable of developing the advanced architectures and AI algorithms essential for modern defense. Helsing was established to bridge this gap, ensuring democratic nations have access to cutting-edge, ethically developed AI solutions.

AI’ll Be Back: The Future of Defense Tech

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into defense systems is transforming military operations worldwide. In 2024, the global AI in defense market was valued at approximately USD 10.4 billion. Projections indicate significant growth, with expectations to reach around USD 35.8 billion by 2034, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.4% during the forecast period. (GM Insights)

This expansion is driven by several factors. Firstly, the increasing complexity of modern warfare necessitates advanced technologies for real-time data analysis and decision-making. AI enhances capabilities in threat detection, surveillance, and autonomous operations, providing a strategic advantage on the battlefield. Secondly, substantial investments by governments in AI research and development underscore its perceived value in national security. For instance, the U.S. military’s budget for AI is expected to reach about USD 18 billion by 2027, highlighting the strategic allocation towards AI technologies in defense operations.

The market’s growth is also attributed to the development of AI-driven autonomous systems, such as drones and unmanned vehicles, which perform tasks ranging from surveillance to combat operations with minimal human intervention. Additionally, AI’s role in cybersecurity is becoming increasingly vital, with defense agencies investing in AI tools to enhance cyber defense capabilities. By 2024, spending on AI tools in cybersecurity within the defense sector is projected to surpass USD 4 billion. (Market.us)

Despite the promising growth, challenges persist. Concerns over data security, ethical considerations, and the integration of AI with existing military infrastructure require careful navigation. Nonetheless, the trajectory of AI in the defense market points towards continued expansion, driven by technological advancements and the evolving nature of global security threats.

Code of Conduct: How Helsing Marries Ethics and Innovation

Helsing’s mission is to achieve technological leadership, enabling democracies to make sovereign decisions and uphold ethical standards. The company envisions a future where AI and software are pivotal in safeguarding open societies. By integrating AI into defense systems, Helsing aims to enhance the effectiveness of military forces, ensuring they can deter and respond to threats while adhering to democratic values.

Helsing addresses several critical challenges in modern defense. Traditional defense systems often struggle to process vast amounts of data in real-time, leading to delayed or suboptimal decision-making. Helsing’s AI solutions enable faster and more accurate data analysis, providing military personnel with timely insights for strategic and tactical operations. Additionally, the company focuses on enhancing the capabilities of existing hardware, extending their operational life and effectiveness through AI integration.

Operating with a software-first approach, Helsing develops AI-powered defense solutions and components for military applications. Their business model includes designing, manufacturing, and selling AI-integrated platforms, such as autonomous drones and surveillance systems, at competitive costs. They collaborate with governments and defense organizations, offering customization and integration services to tailor their solutions to specific needs. Revenue streams include direct sales of AI defense solutions, service fees for customization, subscription-based services for ongoing support, and licensing of AI technologies.

The AI Arsenal: Drones, Platforms, and a Whole Lot of Tech

Helsing.ai is redefining defense technology through its innovative products and solutions, which integrate artificial intelligence to enhance combat capabilities, decision-making, and operational efficiency. Each product is designed to address specific challenges in modern warfare, ensuring reliability and adaptability in dynamic environments. 

Centaur: AI-Powered Air Combat Mastery

Centaur is Helsing’s groundbreaking initiative to integrate advanced artificial intelligence into aerial combat. Designed to match and surpass human capabilities, Centaur uses reinforcement learning to train AI agents for complex air combat scenarios, including beyond-visual-range (BVR) engagements. (Centaur)

• Simulation-Driven Learning: Centaur trains for over 500,000 simulated hours, mastering engagement tactics, defensive maneuvers, and innovative combat strategies. The high-performance simulation ensures these AI agents are prepared for diverse battlefield situations.
• Seamless Integration: Centaur is adaptable for both current and next-generation fighter aircraft, providing enhanced capabilities without requiring significant hardware overhauls.
• Human-Level Decision-Making: By replicating the intuition and adaptability of human pilots, Centaur elevates combat performance, ensuring fighter jets maintain air dominance in highly contested skies​.

Cirra: Advanced Electronic Warfare Intelligence

Cirra is Helsing’s response to the evolving challenges in electronic warfare, particularly the rise of software-defined radar systems. It employs cutting-edge deep learning to decode unknown radar signatures, restoring situational awareness and enhancing survivability in hostile environments. (Cirra)

• Real-Time Threat Assessment: The Cirra Onboard system operates directly within combat aircraft, analyzing emitter signals in real-time and providing immediate feedback to pilots. This ensures fighter jets can respond effectively to dynamic threats.
• Scalable Ground Operations: The Cirra Ground Station processes vast amounts of electronic warfare data offline. By leveraging historical mission data, it refines tactical strategies and improves future mission readiness.
• Modular Integration: Cirra’s architecture is designed for seamless integration with existing and future EW systems, making it highly adaptable and scalable​.

HX-2: AI-Driven Strike Drone

The HX-2 is Helsing’s next-generation strike drone, combining software-defined architecture with mass-producibility. It delivers precision strikes while maintaining resilience against electronic warfare. (HX-2)

• Beyond-Line-of-Sight Capabilities: HX-2 can engage targets up to 100 kilometers away, making it ideal for long-range operations. It features onboard AI that enables target identification and re-engagement even in communication-denied environments.
• Versatile Payload Options: The drone supports various payloads, including anti-tank and anti-structure munitions, allowing it to adapt to diverse mission requirements.
• Swarm Integration: HX-2 is fully integrated with Helsing’s Altra platform, enabling coordinated swarm operations for saturation strikes and complex tactical scenarios.
• Resilience Against EW: The drone’s AI ensures it remains operational even when subjected to hostile electronic countermeasures, maintaining mission integrity under all conditions​.

Altra: The AI-Enhanced Recce-Strike Platform

Altra transforms the battlefield by connecting reconnaissance, targeting, and strike systems into a cohesive operational framework. Its advanced AI capabilities amplify the speed, accuracy, and scalability of land combat operations. (Altra)

• Integrated Targeting Chain: Altra accelerates target identification and engagement by combining live data streams from ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) drones, spotters, and other sources into a unified operational picture.
• Coordinated Campaign Management: Through the Altra Ground Station, operators can coordinate large-scale campaigns in real-time, utilizing automated fire corrections and intelligent effector assignments for optimized results.
• Resilience in Contested Environments: The platform supports GNSS-independent navigation and operates effectively in electromagnetic warfare-contested zones.
• Seamless Integration: Altra is compatible with existing and future hardware, including European artillery systems, mortar launchers, and Helsing’s HX-2 drones. This flexibility ensures adaptability across diverse mission landscapes​.

Helsing’s products are designed with a software-first approach, emphasizing adaptability and integration with existing military hardware. This strategy allows for the rapid deployment of advanced AI capabilities without the need for extensive infrastructure overhauls. By focusing on ethical AI development, Helsing ensures that its solutions align with the values of democratic societies, maintaining human oversight in critical decision-making processes.

Bytes and Bolts: The Tech That Keeps Democracies Safe

Their approach is software-first, focusing on developing advanced AI architectures and algorithms that can be integrated with existing and new hardware platforms. One of their key innovations is the HX-2, an AI-enabled strike drone designed for mass production and swarm operations. The HX-2 operates effectively in contested environments, maintaining mission integrity without continuous data connections. It supports multiple payload options and can execute swarm operations through integration with Helsing’s Altra platform.

Helsing’s AI solutions also play a crucial role in electronic warfare and jamming resistance. By leveraging advanced AI algorithms, their systems can operate effectively in environments where traditional communication systems may be compromised. This capability ensures that military operations can continue without interruption, even in the presence of electronic countermeasures.

In addition to hardware solutions, Helsing provides AI development infrastructure for large-scale defense projects. For instance, they have been selected to provide the AI backbone for the Future Combat Air System (FCAS), a multinational joint initiative between Germany, France, and Spain to develop a next-generation combat air system. This involves creating a high-performance AI development platform that allows for complex industry collaboration and deployment to the armed forces.

Helsing’s commitment to ethical AI development ensures that their technologies align with the values of democratic societies. They emphasize transparency, accountability, and thoughtful deployment of their technologies to maintain human oversight in critical decision-making processes.

By focusing on software-driven solutions, Helsing enables rapid deployment of advanced AI capabilities without the need for extensive infrastructure overhauls. Their innovations enhance decision-making speed and accuracy, provide real-time battlefield awareness, and improve the effectiveness of military operations, all while upholding the ethical standards of the societies they aim to protect.

Winning the AI Game: Helsing’s Impact and Allies

In June 2023, the German government selected Helsing, in partnership with Saab, to provide AI-enabled electronic warfare capabilities for the Eurofighter jet to advance Europe’s defense capabilities. Additionally, in August 2023, Helsing and its consortium partners secured a contract to provide the AI backbone for the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program. This European initiative aims to develop a next-generation combat air system, and Helsing’s involvement underscores its integral role in shaping the future of defense technology in Europe. Helsing’s commitment to supporting democratic nations is further demonstrated by its active involvement in Ukraine since 2022.

In June 2024, Helsing partnered with Airbus Defence and Space to develop AI technologies for a future Wingman system. This unmanned aircraft will operate alongside manned combat jets, receiving commands from pilots in aircraft like the Eurofighter. The collaboration aims to improve air superiority by allowing unmanned Wingmen to undertake dangerous tasks, such as target reconnaissance and electronic warfare, thereby keeping human pilots out of harm’s way. (Helsing)

Helsing has also collaborated with MBDA Germany to develop software-defined defense systems. This partnership combines MBDA’s expertise in effect systems with Helsing’s AI mission modules to create future-proof defense solutions. The joint effort aims to provide high-precision capabilities and modern AI solutions for programs like the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) and counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS). (Helsing)

In August 2024, Helsing expanded its operations in Estonia through a partnership with the Estonian Ministry of Defence. The collaboration develops AI-driven defense capabilities, including software-defined reconnaissance and strike systems, to strengthen Estonia’s national security. Helsing committed to investing €70 million in new facilities and working closely with Estonian industrial partners to achieve these objectives. (Helsing)

Funding the Future: Helsing’s Road to $937 Million

Helsing has raised a total of $937 million in equity funding across five rounds, showcasing strong investor confidence in its mission to revolutionize defense technology through artificial intelligence. The company has attracted a diverse mix of 12 investors, including institutional firms, corporate entities, and angel investors, reflecting broad-based support for its innovative approach to defense solutions. (Tracxn)

In its most recent Series C round on July 11, 2024, Helsing raised $487 million. This round saw participation from prominent institutional investors such as General Catalyst, Accel, Lightspeed Venture Partners, and Greenoaks. Corporate investors included Elad Gil and Saab, further reinforcing Helsing’s strategic ties within the defense industry.

Previously, in September 2023, Helsing closed its Series B round with $224 million in funding. This round, led by General Catalyst, achieved a pre-money valuation of $1.6 billion and a post-money valuation of $1.8 billion. Saab also participated as both an investor and a strategic partner.

Helsing’s Series A funding in 2021 raised a total of $215.9 million across two tranches. The first tranche of $116 million came from institutional investor Prima Materia, facilitated by YPOG. The second tranche of $99.9 million included angel investor Daniel Ek.

The company has also benefited from grants, receiving $426,000 in December 2023 and $1.2 million in December 2022 from the European Union. As of 2023, Helsing reported an annual revenue of approximately $36.7 million, supported by a team of 218 employees. (Latka)

Defense Meets Innovation: Safeguarding Democracies

Helsing is revolutionizing defense technology by integrating artificial intelligence into military systems. They create AI-driven solutions that enhance decision-making, improve operational efficiency, and ensure ethical standards in defense operations. Their products, like the HX-2 drone and Altra platform, showcase their commitment to innovation and practical application in the defense sector. Helsing collaborates with governments and leading industry partners to deliver cutting-edge technologies that protect democratic societies.

The company addresses critical challenges faced by modern militaries. From data integration to real-time decision-making, their software-first approach transforms existing defense systems into advanced, future-ready platforms. Helsing’s mission goes beyond technology. They aim to uphold democratic values and ensure that AI is developed responsibly for national security.

Helsing’s work highlights the importance of ethical innovation in defense. They provide democracies with the tools to stay secure in an increasingly complex world. Their contributions to projects like the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) and Eurofighter electronic warfare systems underline their leadership in the defense AI sector. 

Helsing’s journey is just one of many inspiring stories. Venture Kites explores the world of startups, innovation, and investment. Dive into our other articles to uncover more stories, tips, and insights. Learn from the best and stay inspired.