Helsing Unveils CA-1EA, an Autonomous Aircraft for Electronic Warfare

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Helsing has unveiled the CA-1 Electronic Attack (CA-1EA), an AI-powered autonomous aircraft built for electronic warfare, at the International Aerospace Exhibition. The European defence technology company presented the platform as an expansion of its CA-1 Europa family, whose existing combat variant will now be designated CA-1KA (Kinetic Attack).

Modern air forces need both kinetic and non-kinetic effectors to defeat sophisticated air defences and neutralise enemy reconnaissance systems. Adversary radar networks track and target combat aircraft during conflict, so the CA-1EA jams these ground-based systems from the air. This action opens safe corridors for aircraft flying behind it. The system can support various platforms, including unmanned aircraft like the CA-1 Europa and manned jets such as the Eurofighter.

The CA-1KA and CA-1EA share an airframe, propulsion system, autonomy software and ground control infrastructure, differing mainly in payload. This standardised approach keeps production and maintenance costs down and simplifies training, according to a recent press statement. Helsing said the shared design also allows the platform to expand further, adapting to the needs of different European air forces.

Grob Aircraft, Helsing’s subsidiary in southern Germany, is developing and manufacturing the CA-1 platform. The company describes it as the only fully European solution on offer to German and allied air forces. Maiden flights for the CA-1 Europa attack variant are planned for early 2027, with Initial Operating Capability set for 2029 for the CA-1KA and 2031 for the CA-1EA.

Stephanie Lingemann, Vice President Air Domain at Helsing, commented: “Modern air forces cannot do without electronic warfare.” She added that the CA-1EA can operate alongside the CA-1KA at tactical range or be deployed independently for electronic warfare missions.

Learn more on Helsing’s website

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