The Venturist released Europe's Robotics 65 best startups. I see a bunch of defence companies too (Quantum Systems, TEKEVER, ARX Robotics, Orqa, SWARM). One of the selection rules was no defence-only companies, so that excluded Helsing and STARK, otherwise 4 of the top 6 European robotics startups would've been defence related. Pretty fascinating

With the successful first flight of the Airbus U740 Valkyrie in Europe, we are one step closer to introducing an operational uncrewed Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) to the German and other European Armed Forces. The flight achieved all objectives, including a rocket-assisted take-off, manoeuvers at various altitudes and speeds up to Mach 0.8, and in-flight mission adjustments. These learnings will pave the way for subsequent flight tests with our MARS mission system.

Based on the Kratos-built airframe, we’re equipping the Valkyrie with our own mission system that will serve as the uncrewed CCA’s “European brain”. Ensuring full control over software as well as mission applications, data and system hardware, MARS enables German and European Armed Forces to operate the Valkyrie with full operational sovereignty.

The Valkyrie will also play a critical role in enhancing crewed combat aircraft such as the Eurofighter with extended range, firepower, and survivability. The aircraft design enables operational resilience through its rail launch capability, while offering conventional, runway based, take-off and landing as an option.

Source: https://x.com/AirbusDefence/status/2109576658516635976

Germany is considering joining Japan, Britain and Italy in their joint project to develop a next-generation fighter jet, a government official suggested Friday.