Defense technology and resilience are attracting global funding; here are some of the top funders involved

The U.S. budget dominates with contracts worth $53 billion to major tech firms from 2019 to 2022, yet the global rise of defense tech as an investment trend is undeniable.

Helsing, a German-based AI startup, exemplifies the substantial capital available to tech firms with military applications.

Investors are particularly interested in tech solutions with dual-use potential, usable for both civilian and military purposes. This trend underscores the belief that defense tech can contribute broadly to societal resilience.

Rather than the traditional term “defense,” the term “resilience” better captures the concept of enhancing democratic societies’ ability to withstand and recover from challenges.

Helsing’s co-CEO, Gundbert Scherf, articulated that the company was founded with the conviction that AI is pivotal for democracies to uphold their values.

The resonance of Helsing’s mission with mainstream investors, including Spotify founder Daniel Ek, reflects a broader shift in societal attitudes and within venture capital itself.