HX-2
HX-2 is an electrically propelled strike drone developed by Helsing of Munich, Germany, announced on 2 December 2024. It is a quadcopter with four rotors arranged in an X configuration, built around onboard artificial intelligence that Helsing says lets the aircraft keep searching for, re-identifying and engaging a target without a continuous data link.
Overview
Helsing designed the HX-2 to be software-defined and mass-producible, built for swarm operation through the company's Altra reconnaissance-and-strike software, in which a single human operator can control multiple aircraft at once while remaining in or on the loop for critical engagement decisions. Helsing states the aircraft's AI systems are intended to resist electronic-warfare jamming, continuing a mission even if its data link is disrupted. The company describes the HX-2 as carrying a modular, multi-purpose munition payload for use against armoured vehicles and other military targets.
Weight and range figures are consistent across Helsing's own announcement and independent reporting: a 12 kg aircraft with a stated range of up to 100 km. Reported top speed differs by source: Wikipedia gives 250 km/h, while Army Recognition and other reporting on Helsing's own figures give 220 km/h; this page uses the lower, more widely corroborated figure.
Design and capabilities
The HX-2 weighs about 12 kg and carries a payload of up to 5 kg. Helsing quotes a maximum range of 100 km and a top speed of around 220 km/h, with electric propulsion driving four rotors in its X-wing layout. Guidance combines onboard AI-based target recognition with navigation intended to function without a continuous link to its operator, which Helsing says also gives the aircraft resistance to jamming and other electronic-warfare countermeasures.
Operational history
Helsing announced the HX-2 on 2 December 2024 and has said the aircraft is in production. Germany has funded large-scale deliveries of Helsing strike drones to Ukraine, including a contract for an additional 6,000 HX-2 aircraft announced in February 2025, on top of an earlier order. Helsing has said it is building further production capacity, including a factory in Germany, to scale output.
Frequently asked questions
What is the range of the HX-2?
Helsing quotes a maximum range of up to 100 km.
Who operates the HX-2?
Ukraine, under contracts funded by Germany, including an order for 6,000 additional aircraft announced in February 2025.
How much does the HX-2 weigh?
About 12 kg, with a payload of up to 5 kg.
When was the HX-2 announced?
Helsing announced it on 2 December 2024.
How is the HX-2 controlled?
Through Helsing's Altra software, which lets one human operator control multiple aircraft as a swarm while remaining in or on the loop for critical decisions; onboard AI is designed to keep the aircraft on task even without a continuous data link.
