Helsing to acquire Grob Aircraft SE to advance aerospace and defence capabilities

Grob Aircraft, based in Tussenhausen, Bavaria, employs around 275 people and is recognised globally for its work in military and general aviation. The company’s lightweight composite aircraft technology will serve as an ideal platform for Helsing’s AI-driven defence systems.

The acquisition builds on an existing collaboration between the two firms, including joint work on Helsing’s Cirra product — an onboard algorithm for real-time electronic warfare threat evaluation. Going forward, both companies aim to test and mature relevant hardware, software, and AI technologies for the future of air combat.

Dr Gundbert Scherf, Co-founder and Co-CEO of Helsing, said: “The acquisition deepens our partnership with Grob Aircraft. Our companies have already successfully worked together, and we have a deep appreciation for each other’s strengths.”

“Our competencies complement each other perfectly, our growth ambitions are congruent. And we are both absolutely determined to bolster Europe’s defence sovereignty,” he added.

André Hiebeler, CEO and shareholder of Grob Aircraft, stated: “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.”

Helsing is acquiring Grob Aircraft SE from H3 Aerospace GmbH & Co KG. The acquisition is subject to regulatory approval, and all parties have agreed not to disclose the commercial terms of the deal.