German defense startup Helsing has unveiled the full-size design study of the “CA-1 Europa” uncrewed combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) at its subsidiary Grob Aircraft.
Leveraging the company’s Centaur AI for autonomous pilot capabilities, the multi-mission UCAV is designed to work independently or as part of a swarm, as well as act as a “loyal wingman” alongside crewed fighter aircraft.
Testing and development of the initial prototypes are underway, where the combat drone is anticipated to perform its maiden flight in 2027 and become operational within the next four years.
“Uncrewed fighter jets will become a key capability for establishing air dominance and keeping us safe. Europe cannot afford to fall behind in this category or become dependent on third parties,” said Helsing’s Co-Founder and Co-CEO, Torsten Reil.
European Combat Drone
The CA-1 Europa is within the three-to-five-ton class (3,000 to 5,000 kilograms), measuring 11 meters (36 feet) long with a 10-meter (33-foot) wingspan, and an internal weapons bay.
With a maximum take-off weight of four tons (4,000 kilograms), it flies at subsonic speeds.
Made for fully autonomous operations in contested and denied environments, it can be deployed and operated from various locations using improvised or minimally equipped airfields.
The UCAV also features modular architecture to easily integrate advanced capabilities against evolving threats.
For enhanced situational awareness and mission execution, it integrates three AI systems: the reinforcement-learning Centaur AI for autonomous combat, the deep-learning-based Cirra electronic warfare system, and an AI platform for coordinated operations across assets.
Helsing said that it is collaborating with industry partners within the European aerospace ecosystem to develop the aircraft, focusing on a resilient supply and logistics chain.
The company envisions the drone featuring a sovereign software architecture and hardware design, having an affordable payload, and being mass-produced.
