Germany teams with US startups on next-gen combat drones

Germany is taking initial steps to develop long-range combat drones capable of deep-strike missions, Handelsblatt reported on Monday, citing unnamed sources, according to Reuters.

According to the report, three industrial consortia are currently working on concepts after the air force issued a request for drone proposals to major defence firms and startups. Airbus Defence is said to be partnering with US-based Kratos, while Rheinmetall has joined forces with drone maker Anduril. Munich-based AI startup Helsing is also participating.

The German defence ministry confirmed to Handelsblatt that early-stage discussions had begun but said no official tender had been launched. Both the ministry and the companies mentioned did not respond to emailed requests for comment from Reuters.

Attribution: Reuters

Subediting: M. S. Salama