We Provide Precision Mass and Autonomous Capabilities to Democracies So That They Can Deter and Protect: Torsten Reil of Helsing

Helsing is a defense technology company focused on advancing artificial intelligence to support military and national security operations. It develops AI-powered systems designed to process vast amounts of data in real time, enhancing decision-making and operational effectiveness. By working closely with defense organizations, Helsing ensures that its technology aligns with the needs of modern armed forces. The company prioritizes ethical AI development, emphasizing security, reliability, and transparency in all aspects of its work.

In Conversation with Torsten Reil, Co-Founder & Co-CEO of Helsing

What motivated you to start Helsing?

I have always been interested in the intersection of technology and defense. With the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, it became clear that national security could benefit greatly from AI-driven solutions. We founded Helsing with the goal of ensuring that democratic nations have access to cutting-edge AI tools that improve decision-making and operational efficiency while maintaining transparency and accountability.

How does Helsing differentiate itself from other defense technology companies?

Our focus is on software-first defense solutions. Many traditional defense companies prioritize hardware, but we believe AI-driven software can bring an immediate and scalable advantage. Our systems process data in real time, providing military personnel with actionable insights that help them respond faster and more effectively to evolving threats.

What are the biggest challenges in integrating AI into defense systems?

One of the main challenges is ensuring that AI operates in a way that is reliable, ethical, and aligned with human decision-making. Military operations demand absolute precision, so we put a strong emphasis on rigorous testing and validation. Another challenge is bridging the gap between the fast-moving tech industry and the structured, long-term planning cycles of defense organizations.

How do you approach ethical considerations in AI for defense?

Ethics are at the core of our work. We are committed to developing AI that supports democratic values and aligns with international regulations. We work closely with governments to ensure our technology is deployed responsibly and that human oversight remains a fundamental part of decision-making. AI should be an enabler, not a replacement for human judgment.

What role does real-time data processing play in Helsing’s solutions?

In modern defense operations, speed is everything. Our AI systems analyze and interpret vast amounts of sensor data in real time, providing commanders with a clear picture of their environment. This helps reduce uncertainty and enables faster, more informed decisions, which can be critical in high-pressure situations.

What do you see as the future of AI in defense?

AI will continue to play an increasingly important role in defense, not just in terms of automation but also in supporting human decision-making. The key will be ensuring that AI systems are built with accountability and security in mind. As the world becomes more complex, having intelligent systems that can process information quickly and accurately will be essential for maintaining stability and security.

What has been the most rewarding part of building Helsing?

Seeing our technology make a tangible difference has been incredibly rewarding. Our goal is to equip democratic nations with the tools they need to protect their security and sovereignty. Knowing that our work contributes to that mission keeps us motivated every day.

What’s next for Helsing?

We are focused on expanding our capabilities and working even more closely with defense organizations across Europe. The demand for AI-driven solutions in national security is growing, and we are committed to staying at the forefront of innovation while maintaining the highest ethical standards.

Torsten Reil, Co-Founder & Co-CEO, Helsing

“Our goal is to equip democratic nations with the tools they need to protect their security and sovereignty. Knowing that our work contributes to that mission keeps us motivated every day.”