Heckler & Koch, Germany's largest manufacturer of hand firearms, is venturing into the drone defense market, marking a significant shift in its business strategy. The company has received an order for its new defense system, although details remain undisclosed. Firm CEO Jens Bodo Koch highlighted the growing threat drones pose to infantry, a challenge for which there are currently few solutions.
The new defense system integrates grenade launchers or machine grenade launchers mounted on a vehicle turret, equipped with a sensor box that utilizes artificial intelligence to detect and assess the threat level of drones in the sky. The grenade is then programmed to explode near the drone, creating a metal cloud that destroys the drone upon contact. This innovative approach showcases Heckler & Koch's transition from a traditional firearms manufacturer to a comprehensive defense system provider.
Collaboration plays a key role in the development of this system. Heckler & Koch has partnered with Munich-based AI specialist Autonomous Teaming, while Rheinmetall supplies the grenade control components, and a Slovenian firm provides the vehicle turret. The company is currently in the project's setup phase, having conducted initial shooting tests, with the product expected to be ready for sale by the end of the year.
This strategic pivot not only addresses the increasing demand for effective drone defense solutions but also positions Heckler & Koch for potential revenue growth in a rapidly evolving defense market. The move reflects the company's adaptability and commitment to innovation, ensuring its relevance in the face of modern warfare challenges.
The International Biathlon Union is confronting climate change head-on with experimental roller-ski competitions, staging the Loop One Festival in Munich's Olympic Park as both a public showcase and practical preparation for potentially snowless winters. Top athletes from around the world...
Hundreds of demonstrators gathered at Berlin's Brandenburg Gate on Sunday evening, forming a sea of lights with mobile phone torches and lighters to protest for diversity and against racism. The rally came just days after German Chancellor Friedrich Merz made controversial comments about...
The mood in Germany's residential construction sector has improved to its highest level in over three years, according to the latest Ifo Institute survey. The business climate index for housing construction rose sharply in September to -21.8 points, up from -26.4 points in August, marking the...
Swiss cement conglomerate Holcim has agreed to acquire German building materials manufacturer Xella for €1.85 billion, marking a significant strategic move in the European construction sector. The transaction, announced on Monday, is expected to be finalized in the second half of 2026,...
Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS), Germany's largest naval shipbuilder, made a strong debut on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange Monday, with shares trading significantly above initial expectations. The stock opened at €60 per share, far surpassing analyst forecasts of approximately €36, and...
