Germany relies on AI: 6,000 HX-2 drones for Ukraine!

Germany relies on AI: 6,000 HX-2 drones for Ukraine!

The German government is planning a remarkable step in supporting Ukraine: 6,000 HX-2 combat drones are to be delivered by the end of 2025. This type of autonomous aircraft, developed by the Munich-based company Helsing, has already been tested in real combat conditions, including in Ukraine. The HX-2 is an electric and highly automated weapon system capable of detecting, deciding and attacking targets without the need for human intervention. However, these developments raise a variety of ethical and legal questions among the public and experts.

The HX-2 drones are characterized by their high autonomy and resistance to electronic warfare. With a range of up to 100 kilometers and a top speed of 220 km/h, the HX-2 is a compact and fast platform. It weighs 12 kg and can operate both at ground level and over urban terrain. The drone is also equipped with a multispectral detection system that makes it possible to precisely identify vehicles, people and heat sources.

Technological innovations and possible applications

The HX-2 is designed not only for use in the Ukraine conflict, but also for modern combat operations in general. It can operate in a “swarm,” meaning multiple drones can communicate with each other and attack in a coordinated manner. This is supported by the integration of the Altra AI control system, which allows adaptation to new tactical challenges through over-the-air updates. The main weapon is multifunctional ammunition, which is designed to take out tanks and military installations.

Helsing, active since 2021 and with offices in Germany, Great Britain and France, specializes in the development of AI solutions for the defense industry. The company sees itself as a “defender of democracy through artificial intelligence” and wants to give democratic countries a technological advantage against modern threats. However, the question of the extent to which human control is maintained in these autonomous systems is increasingly being viewed critically. The federal government emphasizes that every operation should be humanely supervised, but the practical implementation of this supervision remains questionable.

Ethical concerns and future prospects

The discussion about autonomous weapon systems like the HX-2 is accompanied by ethical and legal implications that have hardly been adequately addressed to date. Critics warn that the technology could usher in a new era of war in which machines make deadly decisions without showing human compassion or responsibility. This could not only transform war, but also fuel global competition in autonomous weapons technology.

With the planned deployment of 4,000 HX-2 drones to support Ukraine, Germany is taking a leading role in the development and provision of AI-controlled weapon systems. Whether this will actually improve security or escalate conflict remains to be seen.