Europe’s Killer Drone: Helsing Reveals CA‑1 — First Flight Set For 2027!

German defence startup Helsing unveiled its full‑size CA‑1 Europa autonomous combat drone near Munich, aiming for a first flight in 2027 and operational service within four years. The AI‑powered V‑tailed platform can fly solo, in swarms, or act as a fighter “wingman.” Helsing — which bought trainer‑maker Grob — plans heavy European investment and claims CA‑1 will cost only a fraction of a fighter jet. The firm already produces HX‑2 strike drones for Ukraine, but analysts warn scaling and weapons‑integration challenges remain.