UK's Helsing Unveils CA-1 Europa: Europe's First Autonomous Uncrewed Combat Jet
Helsing, a UK-based defence technology company, has unveiled the CA-1 Europa, an autonomous uncrewed combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) designed for future air combat. The CA-1 Europa is a three-to-five-ton jet capable of high subsonic speeds and highly autonomous operations, thanks to its central component, Helsing's 'Centaur' AI autonomy stack.
The CA-1 Europa is being developed in collaboration with European aerospace partners, ensuring a resilient European supply chain. Key partners include Grob Aircraft, where development and testing are taking place. The production version is expected to be operational within four years.
The CA-1 Europa is designed to deliver 'intelligent mass' in future air combat, performing missions independently or as part of a swarm. It is suitable for a variety of mission types, including deep precision strike. To support these autonomous operations, Helsing will also deliver a command-and-control system for operators to plan and monitor missions.
The CA-1 Europa is being developed to enhance British capability and protect the UK without putting British pilots in harm's way. With its advanced AI autonomy stack and European collaboration, the CA-1 Europa is set to redefine future air combat capabilities.
