Ukraine Pauses Further Orders of German Helsing HX-2 Drones Following Test Issues
Kyiv, January 20 - Ukraine has decided to halt additional orders of the HX-2 strike drones manufactured by the German defense technology company Helsing, following performance challenges identified during frontline testing. The HX-2, a hybrid fixed-wing and quadcopter design unveiled in late 2024, was intended to provide a scalable, AI-enhanced alternative to Russian Lancet drones, capable of engaging targets up to 100 kilometers away. Initial deliveries under a 2024 co-production agreement with a Ukrainian partner focused on earlier models, with expectations of expanding to thousands of units. However, operational evaluations in combat conditions revealed significant limitations that have prompted a reevaluation of future procurements.
Reports indicate that the drones encountered difficulties during launch, with only approximately 25% successfully taking off in certain tests due to mechanical issues with the ejection system. Additionally, the systems proved vulnerable to electronic warfare jamming, disrupting operator communications near the front lines. The HX-2 was promoted with advanced artificial intelligence features for terminal guidance, mid-course navigation, and visual target acquisition, but delivered units reportedly lacked some of these promised components, further contributing to reliability concerns in high-intensity environments.
These setbacks have reduced demand for the platform, leading Ukraine to pause new orders pending potential improvements or further assessments. Helsing, Europe's most valuable defense startup, maintains that its drones underwent combat testing by Ukrainian Unmanned Systems Forces and received clearance for deployment, describing initial results as encouraging. The company has emphasized ongoing production ramp-up to meet potential future needs and denies awareness of certain critical reports.
Germany, which has funded these drone acquisitions as part of broader military support, has aligned with Ukraine's position and does not plan follow-up orders without renewed interest from Kyiv. This development highlights the rapid evolution of drone technology in the conflict, where systems must continually adapt to electronic countermeasures and battlefield realities. As Ukraine prioritizes effective unmanned aerial vehicles for its defense strategy, the pause underscores the challenges in transitioning innovative European solutions into reliable frontline assets.