Munich-based defense technology company Helsing is acquiring Grob Aircraft, an established manufacturer of training aircraft based in Swabian Tussenhausen. The two companies will work more closely together going forward to develop modern hardware and software solutions for military aviation.
The acquisition gives Helsing access to extensive manufacturing expertise in aircraft production. Grob Aircraft brings decades of experience in developing and manufacturing light aircraft made from composite materials. This construction method is particularly well-suited as a platform for Helsing technology. In the past, Helsing has already used Grob aircraft as a carrier platform for its software.
The Munich startup with unicorn status specializes in the application of artificial intelligence in defense. The software analyzes sensor data in real time and is intended to enable cognitive electronic warfare (EW) – for example in the form of situational analysis for threat assessments. According to the company, a human is always involved in this process: “human in the loop”.
Investments and jobs in Bavaria
Through the acquisition, Helsing aims not only to achieve technological advances but also to invest in the Tussenhausen location and create new jobs. For the Bavarian State Government, this move aligns with the strategic goal of developing Bavaria into a leading innovation hub for aerospace and AI.
“With this acquisition, we are deepening our partnership with Grob Aircraft. Our companies have already worked together successfully in the past and we greatly respect and value each other. Our competencies complement each other perfectly, our growth ambitions are aligned. And we are both absolutely determined to strengthen sovereignty in Europe’s defense industry. As we continue to expand our expertise together, we are also advancing Bavaria’s position as a European hub for cutting-edge technology and innovation in defense”,
explains Gundbert Scherf, co-founder and co-CEO of Helsing.
Grob Aircraft also sees great potential in the new constellation. André Hiebeler, managing partner of Grob Aircraft, says:
“Helsing’s vision and technological expertise are a perfect fit for us. Helsing is a technology leader in AI and software, and we have decades of experience as a manufacturer of composite aircraft. Together, we are creating a unique partnership to redefine innovation in our sector.”
