During the 34th International Defence Industry Exhibition (MSPO 2026) at Targi Kielce, the Polish Armaments Group (PGZ), in cooperation with Zakłady Chemiczne Nitro-Chem, presented a breakthrough project integrating the 70 mm Hydra rocket with the Kuna Configurable Autonomous Multipurpose Platform developed by the Military Institute of Armoured and Automotive Technology (WITPiS) in Sulejówek.
Photos: Nitro-Chem
The Kuna was presented in a new, upgraded version, powered by a gasoline engine instead of a diesel, and configured as a carrier for a multiple launcher for guided or unguided 70 mm rockets, with an ammunition load of 70 Hydra rockets.
This combination of proven firepower with a modern, fully autonomous mobile platform responds to the growing demands of the contemporary battlefield and reflects lessons learned from the war in Ukraine. The platform is intended primarily for tactical-level operations in terrain that is difficult to access for larger vehicles used by soldiers on the battlefield.
The project includes the comprehensive integration of the launcher module with the Kuna platform, integration of the fire-control systems with the vehicle control systems, and the development of advanced communications interfaces enabling remote control and coordination of combat operations. The complete system will undergo rigorous ballistic and field testing to ensure maximum effectiveness and reliability under combat conditions.
The 70 mm Hydra rocket, known for its precision and reliability, combined with the mobility and autonomy of the Kuna, creates a system that extends engagement range, shortens reaction time and minimizes risk to soldiers. The solution not only strengthens the tactical capabilities of the Land Forces, but also demonstrates that the Polish defense industry is ready to deliver world-class technologies.
On May 12 this year, Zakłady Chemiczne Nitro-Chem, in cooperation with U.S. partners General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems (GD-OTS) and Paramount Enterprises International Inc. (PEI), signed an agreement concerning the development of production capabilities for 70 mm Hydra unguided rockets.
The agreement may represent an important step toward establishing a production and logistics center for 70 mm Hydra rockets in Poland, whose primary task would be to secure supplies for the Polish Armed Forces, particularly for the 96 AH-64E Apache helicopters ordered by the Ministry of National Defence, as well as for the San counter-UAS system program.
It is also worth noting that 70 mm Hydra rockets can be converted into guided weapons for engaging lightly armored targets or drones through the use of WGU-59/B APKWS II (Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System) laser guidance modules manufactured by U.S. company BAE Systems Inc., part of the British BAE Systems group.
Kuna vehicles are currently undergoing testing with the Polish Armed Forces. The prototype was developed by WITPiS in cooperation with Chema DS of Cegłów and Mista of Stalowa Wola, and was unveiled in its original configuration at the 32nd MSPO in 2024, where the consortium received a Defender award.
See also:
