Germany is innovating in weapons: from drones to cyborg cockroaches

Germany is investing billions in startups that are changing the face of the military, from artificial intelligence to bio-cyborgs for reconnaissance.

Noting the changes in the security sector after Russia invaded Ukraine, Germany plans to almost triple its defense budget to 162 billion euros a year by 2029. At the heart of this transformation are new technologies and innovative startups, Reuters reports.

One of the leaders in this field is the Munich-based company Helsing. Its co-founder, Gundbert Scherf, said that a recent investment round significantly increased the company’s value to $12 billion. Helsing is developing strike drones and artificial intelligence that could change modern military operations substantially. “Europe has finally taken up the defense issue,” Scherf said.

Friedrich Merz’s government has stepped up efforts to modernize the army, making it easier for startups to participate in military tenders and allowing them to receive advance payments. There is also the possibility of restricting participation in tenders for companies from outside the EU.

Both large companies, such as Rheinmetall and Hensoldt, have joined the defense sector, as well as startups such as ARX Robotics, Quantum Systems, and Swarm Biotactics. The latter is working on bio-cyborgs that can penetrate dangerous areas to transmit video in real time. According to the director of Swarm Biotactics, Stefan Wilhelm, these drone-cockroaches can be controlled using electrical pulses built into their system.

Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said at a meeting with businessmen: “Money can no longer be an excuse.” The war in Ukraine has changed public attitudes towards the defense industry, and requests for participation in new projects are increasing every day.

Investment activity in the field of defense technologies has also increased. According to Dealroom, German startups have raised $1.4 billion in venture capital over the past five years, the highest in Europe. In 2024, total defense technology investment on the continent will exceed $1 billion.

Startups are not only raising money, but also rapidly implementing their technologies, undergoing practical trials, including in Ukraine.

The defense minister also confirmed Germany’s readiness to provide Ukraine with two Patriot systems if their rapid replacement is ensured.