German defense technology company Helsing recently launched its first AI-driven suicide drone, the HX-2. This electric "X-wing" drone has a top speed of 136 miles per hour (approximately 220 kilometers per hour) and a combat range of 62 miles (about 100 kilometers). The core components of the HX-2 have been tested in actual combat, demonstrating its powerful operational capabilities.
The HX-2 is equipped with advanced artificial intelligence and has electronic warfare immunity, allowing operators to control the drone without maintaining a continuous data connection. This means that even in environments with poor signals, the drone can still carry out its mission. The AI software of the HX-2 can autonomously search for, re-identify, and attack targets without human control, although critical decisions still need to be made by human operators.
This drone weighs 26.4 pounds (about 12 kilograms), though it is unclear if this weight includes the payload. The HX-2 is classified as "loitering munitions," specifically designed for anti-tank and anti-building operations. When combined with Helsing's proprietary Altra reconnaissance/strike software, the HX-2 can also be operated in swarms, managed by a single operator.
Niklas Köhler, co-founder of Helsing, stated, "The launch of the HX-2 marks the emergence of a new category of intelligent capabilities that combines scale, autonomy, and precision. A single HX-2 can reliably engage armored targets in highly contested environments. When deployed en masse at borders, the HX-2 can serve as an effective anti-invasion barrier against enemy ground forces." Additionally, the HX-2 is more cost-effective than traditional artillery systems and is produced on a large scale using economical methods such as 3D printing. Currently, around 4,000 HX-2 drones have been delivered to Ukraine, with core components rigorously tested in combat.
Recently, Anduril also launched a similar drone, the Bolt-M, which can also deploy anti-personnel and anti-vehicle munitions in a self-destructive manner and offers a more complex information-sharing network.
Key Highlights:
🚀 The HX-2 is Helsing's first AI-driven suicide drone, featuring high speed and long combat range.
🤖 The drone can perform missions without a continuous data connection and can autonomously search for and attack targets.
💰 The production cost of the HX-2 is lower than that of traditional artillery systems, with 4,000 units already delivered to Ukraine for combat testing.
