Helldivers 2 has rolled out a significant update with patch 01.003.000, now available on both PC and PlayStation 5. This update introduces new Illuminate enemies, weapon customization and progression, and revamps the Superstore, enhancing the overall gameplay experience.

Following teasers from developer Arrowhead, the game now faces a full-scale invasion from the Illuminate alien faction. New enemies include the Stingray, jetfighters that provide aerial support and execute devastating strafing runs on Helldivers, and the Crescent Overseer, capable of laying barrages on players in cover. Additionally, the Fleshmob, a "failed" Illuminate experiment, has been introduced as a formidable brute force on the battlefield that Helldivers must strategize to take down.

Attention, Helldivers: This is a Galactic Emergency.

The true Illuminate invasion has begun. In a sudden and completely unprovoked offensive manoeuvre, the full Illuminate fleet is emerging from the Meridia Singularity. Nothing is safe - not even the Heart of Democracy itself. pic.twitter.com/2hgtK6akMb

— HELLDIVERS™ 2 (@helldivers2) May 13, 2025

Arrowhead has hinted at the presence of larger ships, sparking curiosity about what more players might uncover in the game.

A major addition to Helldivers 2 is the introduction of weapon customization and progression. Players can now level up most primary weapons by completing missions, unlocking new attachments through Requisition. Customization options include sights for precision, color patterns, magazine adjustments for ammo capacity, muzzles for optimizing weapon performance, and under-barrel attachments for better handling. This allows players to tailor their weapons to their preferred playstyle, making their favorite primary weapon top-tier in its class.

The update also includes a new set of patterns for the FRV themed on the Viper Commandos, Freedom's Flame, Chemical Agents, and Truth Enforcers Warbonds, set to unlock on May 15 with the launch of the Masters of Ceremony Warbond.

The Superstore has been updated to ensure that desired items are always available, eliminating the need for players to wait for items to rotate back into stock.

In addition to these new features, patch 01.003.000 includes a comprehensive balance pass, adjusting elements such as spread, drag, sway, melee weapon stamina costs, shrapnel spawning, and fire damage to refine the gameplay experience.