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Germany-Based Helsing Plans Berkeley County, West Virginia, Manufacturing Operations

08/16/2026
Germany-based defense technology company Helsing plans to establish operations in Martinsburg, West Virginia. The $50 million project is expected to create at least 60 jobs in Berkeley County.

The investment will include the construction of a new production facility that will initially manufacture its HX-2 AI-enabled strike drone.

“A strong defense industrial base depends on trusted partnerships and the ability to scale advanced manufacturing where it matters most. West Virginia stood out for its skilled workforce, speed to build, manufacturing heritage, and commitment to strengthening the U.S. industrial base,” said Helsing U.S. General Manager Dr. Jennifer McArdle. “We’re excited to build in Appalachia and grateful to Gov. Morrisey and the State of West Virginia for their support.”

To support the project, the state worked with Helsing to provide customized workforce training, logistics and energy resources. West Virginia Advance and Blue Ridge Community and Technical College also developed a specialized workforce training program tailored to the company’s manufacturing requirements.

“Welcoming a global defense technology innovator with battlefield-deployed products like Helsing to Berkeley County is another major milestone for West Virginia,” noted Governor Patrick Morrisey. “This investment demonstrates that our state has the skilled workforce, dependable infrastructure and business climate needed to compete for the industries of tomorrow. We're proud to help strengthen America's defense while creating outstanding career opportunities for West Virginians.”

Helsing develops artificial intelligence software and autonomous systems for military and national security applications. The company specializes in AI-enabled defense software, autonomous aerial and underwater systems, electronic warfare technologies, and development and integration of software-defined defense capabilities.

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