Helsing targets European market with new CA-1 combat drone
A design study image of the CA-1 Europa. (Photo: Helsing)
Helsing has unveiled its new CA-1 Europa, a loyal wingman fixed-wing uncrewed combat aerial vehicle (UCAV).
The company has already presented a full-sized design study of the jet to its Grob Aircraft subsidiary, with the company aiming to have a production-ready version before the end of the decade.
Helsing confirmed to Shephard that the testing timeline was being conducted rapidly, with ground tests of CA-1 Europa prototype anticipated in the coming months and flight tests likely due to start in 2027.
It is currently working with as-yet-unnamed European manufacturers to build the aircraft, drawing on a scalable, resilient supply chain.
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
BAE Systems' UK Combat Air Demonstrator closes in on final assembly
The first render for the demonstrator was unveiled in July 2025, with BAE Systems now aiming for the start of final assembly by the end of 2026 to prepare the aircraft for first flight by 2027.
-
Rapid APKWS integration sparks “strong” demand from Typhoon customers
The recent operational use and success of the APKWS laser-guidance kit on the UK RAF's Typhoons has driven demand from other Eurofighter customers for integration of the system on their own combat aircraft fleet, according to BAE Systems.
-
Callen-Lenz pushes ahead with Nyan OWE as it hails operational success
The one-way-effector uncrewed aerial vehicle has also been tested by the British Army, following on from its contract award notice in February 2026.
-
Eurosatory 2026: Locally produced loitering munition destined for UAE Navy, says MBDA
The contract signed between MBDA and Fly-R will see diamond-shaped loitering munitions developed and prepared in the UAE. How does this move fit into wider market trends in the region?
-
Eurosatory 2026: MBDA and Thales look to civilian industry for loitering munition scale-up
Thales and MBDA have taken steps to ensure the mass production of their respective loitering munition offerings at Eurosatoy, teaming with civilian manufacturers. These moves come amid France’s push towards sovereign drone production and continued market expansion.