Adaptation of German HX-2 Drone for Launch From Maritime Platforms

The German HX-2 strike drone, which is used by Ukraine, has been adapted for deployment from boats.

Helsing reported that it successfully conducted the first launch of the drone from a coastal vessel.

The tests were conducted from a high-speed landing craft in the coastal waters off Plymouth — Helsing’s maritime hub.

The HX-2 was launched from a catapult located in the bow of the boat.

Such tests open up the possibility of using the HX-2 from maritime drones in the future.

In 2025, it was reported that Helsing is to manufacture 6,000 HX-2 strike drones for Ukraine.

In a number of areas, Russian occupiers are already being attacked by Helsing-manufactured HX-2 strike drones.

The HX-2 drone, featuring an X-shaped wing and tail, was unveiled in late 2024.

It is designed to engage armored vehicles, artillery, and other military targets, including engineering structures.

The 12 kg drone is equipped with four electric motors in its tail section and can reach a maximum speed of 220 km/h.

According to Helsing, this kamikaze drone has a flight range of up to 100 km. The stated weight of the HX-2 indicates that it is equipped with a warhead weighing several kilograms.

Thanks to the use of artificial intelligence, the drone is highly autonomous in the face of electronic warfare measures and can effectively engage targets. In addition, several HX-2 drones can form a ‘swarm’ to carry out combat missions.