AI warfare push makes Helsing one of Europe’s 5 most valuable tech firms

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June 17, 2025, 4:09 PM

• •Helsing, a Munich-based defense tech startup, raised €600 million, bringing its total raised to over €1.3 billion.
• •The investment, led by Spotify CEO Daniel Ek's VC firm Prima Materia, values Helsing at €12 billion.
• •Helsing develops autonomous strike drones and reconnaissance submarines, with its technology being used by European militaries.
• •Investment in European defense tech startups has surged, with AI-focused companies showing significant growth.

Helsing, a defense tech startup, has secured a substantial €600 million investment, boosting its total funding to over €1.3 billion, reflecting a broader trend of increased investment in defense technology. Led by Spotify CEO Daniel Ek's VC firm, Prima Materia, the investment values Helsing at €12 billion, making it one of Europe's most valuable private tech companies. Helsing specializes in autonomous strike drones and reconnaissance submarines, with its technology being utilized by several European militaries, including Ukraine's. This surge in investment aligns with the growth of AI-driven defense solutions and a general rise in military spending amid rising security concerns.

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