Danish software in German drones to ensure European data control
Danish software company Systematic and German drone manufacturer Helsing have entered into a strategic partnership to strengthen the integration between drones, artificial intelligence and military command and control systems.
The partnership means that Helsings AI-based drone technology will be directly integrated with Systematic’s SitaWare platform, which is already used by more than 50 countries. The goal is to create a solution where data can be quickly shared and used in real-time when drones collect and analyze information during military operations.
“The collaboration means we can deliver a technological win for our customers by combining our software and artificial intelligence with Helsings autonomous drones without locking customers to one platform or supplier. Instead, they will be able to combine the best of both worlds and still maintain overview and ownership of their own data.” Systematic CEO Nikolaj Bramsen in a press release.
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One of the key areas of collaboration is the development of so-called drone swarms – autonomous flocks of drones that can communicate and coordinate with each other. The technology makes it possible to search large areas, identify targets and provide intelligence without continuous manual control.
By linking Helsings’ systems with SitaWare, drone data can immediately be included in the planning and management of missions in the same system that several NATO countries already use.
European control over data
The collaboration also addresses a growing concern in Europe about who owns and controls the data generated by modern military systems. By combining two European solutions, customers will have access to AI, advanced drone technology and digital decision support without being tied to one supplier or risk giving up control over data.
“A strong Europe needs its own independent software solutions. Systematic is a leader in interoperable command and control systems and shares our ambition to strengthen European defense with European technology. Through our partnership, we can deliver advanced, autonomous drone swarms that can be deployed quickly and with precision against external threats,” says Gundbert Scherf, Co-CEO and co-founder of Helsing.
The partnership between Helsing and Systematic was officially signed on September 10 at Europe’s largest defense exhibition DSEI in London. Systematic’s founder and Chairman of the Board Michael Holm says about the agreement:
“Helsing is at the forefront of AI-driven reconnaissance and targeted operations, and is well on its way to becoming one of Europe’s leading players in AI and emerging technologies. With partnerships like this, our users will get more value from their investments in modern defense technology and the platforms that support them. At the same time, we are helping to strengthen European technological sovereignty and provide advanced data solutions to our allies.”