Ukraine tests German HX-2 strike drones launched from fast boats
German HX-2 drone (photo: Helsing company)
The German HX-2 strike drone can now attack targets not only from land but also from the sea. Manufacturer Helsing successfully tested the launch of a drone from the deck of a high-speed boat, Militarnyi portal reports.
Specialists carried out a launch in coastal waters near the British city of Plymouth, at the maritime center of Helsing company. The drone was launched from a boat using a special catapult located in the bow section of the vessel.
Technology worked normally, opening new possibilities for maritime operations. Drones can now be launched even from autonomous naval drones such as Magura, for example.
These tests are critically important for the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Back in 2025, information appeared about a large order for six thousand HX-2 drones for Ukraine.
In some sections of the front line, Ukrainian defenders are already actively using this weapon. Russian forces have already felt the power of German developments, as German drones effectively strike armored vehicles and Russian artillery. It is also used to destroy enemy engineering structures.
Technical advantages and artificial intelligence of HX-2
UAV, first presented at the end of 2024, received an X-shaped wing. It weighs 12 kilograms, while four electric motors allow a speed of up to 220 km/h.
Main characteristics of a drone:
- Flight range reaches 100 kilometers;
- Warhead weighs several kilograms;
- High resistance to electronic warfare systems;
- Autonomy thanks to artificial intelligence.
Artificial intelligence is the main feature of HX-2. Drone independently identifies and strikes targets, while enemy electronic warfare systems cannot easily affect its control. In addition, these drones can unite into a swarm. A group of drones acts as a single mechanism, allowing breakthrough even through dense enemy defenses.
What else is known about drones and Ukraine's defense industry
Ukraine developed an AI turret that will shoot down Russian drones. According to Ukraine's Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, a new system was created by one of the participants of the Brave1 platform. Turret has already undergone combat use and is being used in key areas of the front line.
The Armed Forces of Ukraine are also increasing the use of interceptor drones. In particular, Ukrainian P1-SUN drones from SkyFall company have already destroyed several Gerbera drones carrying FPV drones on board for the first time.
In addition, this year, Ukraine plans to produce 25 thousand ground drones that will replace Armed Forces fighters in the hottest areas of the front line. The development of the army of robots became a forced step due to the high activity of Russian drones.
