German defence company Helsing is calling for the swift establishment of an effective conventional deterrent on NATO’s eastern flank using new types of combat drones.
“A drone wall could be erected within a year. You also need reconnaissance systems, satellites and probably reconnaissance drones,” Gundbert Scherf, co-founder and co-chief executive of the Munich-based enterprise, told dpa on Sunday.
However, Scherf believes the entire concept of modern-day defence would first need a major rethink.
“At the moment, the debate is still like the Cold War,” he argued. “We’re counting armoured systems, aircraft and ships on the other side and seeing if we can somehow get close to parity with a lot of money. And I think that’s the wrong way round.”
Helsing specializes in the application of artificial intelligence (AI) for the defence industry.
It has developed the HX-2 drone – initially for use in Ukraine – which employs AI to guide explosive charges to a target and is less susceptible to electronic interference.
The company has established a partnership with French space start-up Loft Orbital to monitor borders and troop movements using reconnaissance satellites.
With the Swedish manufacturer Saab, preparations are being made to install an AI application for air combat in the Gripen fighter jet.
Helsing also plans to present an autonomous system for use at sea soon.
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