Hogan Lovells structures Defense Tech acquisition: AI specialist takes over aerospace manufacturer

Hogan Lovells advises on complex transaction in the European defense sector - regulatory hurdles require multidisciplinary legal advice.

Transaction structure and strategic objectives

The Munich-based defense technology group Helsing is acquiring the Bavarian aircraft manufacturer Grob Aircraft SE from H3 Aerospace GmbH & Co KG. The transaction is subject to standard regulatory approval procedures and is being legally advised by the international law firm Hogan Lovells under the lead management of Hamburg partner Dr. Alexander Koch. The strategic acquisition aims to integrate Grob Aircraft's composite expertise with Helsing's AI and software solutions. The Tussenhausen-based aircraft manufacturer employs around 275 people and has many years of experience in the design of light aircraft for military and civilian applications.

Market positioning and growth strategy

Helsing, founded in 2021 as a defense tech company, is systematically expanding its cross-domain activities. The Grob acquisition strengthens the aerospace division and complements existing competencies in the land, sea and space sectors. This vertical integration creates significant innovation potential for the European defense industry. The combination of traditional aviation expertise and modern AI technology strategically positions the combined company for the development of next-generation air combat systems. Grob Aircraft's specialization in composite materials perfectly complements Helsing's software expertise.

Legal complexity and regulatory requirements

The transaction required comprehensive legal support from a multidisciplinary Hogan Lovells team led by partners Alexander Koch and Falk Schöning. Co-head of the European Defence team Schöning emphasizes: "The combination of two highly specialized companies with strategic importance for the European security and defence industry entails complex regulatory requirements."

Dr. Alexander Koch explains the particular challenges: "The transaction shows how crucial the combination of legal expertise and technological understanding is in M&A processes in the AI and high-tech sector."

Advisory structure and international coordination

Legal support was provided by specialized teams in several jurisdictions. Corporate M&A expertise was provided by the Hamburg, Luxembourg, Paris and Silicon Valley offices. Regulatory and FDI aspects were handled by experts from Brussels, Paris and London. Additional areas of expertise included employment law, real estate law, tax law and intellectual property law. Group General Counsel Florian Köhler coordinated Helsing's internal legal advice and worked closely with the external advisors. The due diligence, contract negotiations and regulatory issues required coordinated expertise from various areas of law.

Market significance for the European defense industry

The acquisition underlines the consolidation trend in European defense technology. Helsing's systematic expansion through strategic acquisitions reflects the growing importance of integrated AI solutions for modern defense systems. The parties agreed on confidentiality regarding specific transaction terms, which is common in strategically sensitive defense deals. The successful transaction demonstrates Hogan Lovells' expertise in complex defense tech transactions and strengthens the firm's position in the growing European defense market.