Defence & Space

Army & Air Force Exchange opens Expanded Poland Store in Bemowo Piskie

The Army & Air Force Exchange Service opened an expanded store at the Bemowo Piskie Training Area (BPTA), providing enhanced…

2025-03-08 | Redakcja | 2 minutes

Curtiss-Wright to support USMC’s Combat Data Network Program

Curtiss-Wright Receives $18 million follow-on order from U.S. Marine Corps to support Combat Data Network Program with Tactical Communications.

2025-03-08 | Redakcja | 2 minutes

When Trump Plays with Putin – Europe Must Arm Itself

Donald Trump makes it clear that Europe must defend itself and take care of its own security. It has taken…

2025-02-21 | Sławek Zagórski | 4 minutes

Trump proves that Europe must take care of itself

Did President Donald Trump give Vladimir Putin a Valentine’s Day gift in the form of a part of Ukraine? It may look…

2025-02-14 | Sławek Zagórski | 5 minutes

The long-range MBDA Meteor missile first flight with the F-35B Lightning II

The British Royal Air Force (RAF) has announced that the long-range MBDA Meteor air-to-air missile has been integrated with the…

2025-02-28 | Rafał Muczyński | 4 minutes

The first AW149 produced at WSK PZL-Świdnik

At the headquarters of WSK PZL-Świdnik (part of Leonardo Helicopters), the first AW149 multirole support helicopter assembled in Poland, intended…

2025-02-28 | Rafał Muczyński | 4 minutes

Curtiss-Wright to support USMC’s Combat Data Network Program

Curtiss-Wright Receives $18 million follow-on order from U.S. Marine Corps to support Combat Data Network Program with Tactical Communications.

2025-03-08 | Redakcja | 2 minutes

Elbit Systems to provide JNDFC Center for a European Country

Elbit Systems awarded contracts totaling approximately $100 million to provide Joint National Digital Fires Command Center for a European country.

2025-02-10 | Redakcja | 2 minutes

Mactronic on Enforce Tac 2025

Mactronic Group redefines tactical lighting with groundbreaking innovations debuting for the first time at this year’s Enforce Tac event.

2025-02-21 | Redakcja | 2 minutes

Thales, Milrem Robotics, and EM&E Group sign a MoU for strategic cooperation in the UAE

Milrem Robotics, the world’s leading robotics and autonomous systems developer, EM&E Group, a prominent defence technology provider, and Thales in Belgium,…

2025-02-20 | Redakcja | 2 minutes

Curtiss-Wright to support USMC’s Combat Data Network Program

Curtiss-Wright Receives $18 million follow-on order from U.S. Marine Corps to support Combat Data Network Program with Tactical Communications.

2025-03-08 | Redakcja | 2 minutes

Szczęśniak Special Vehicles will deliver 10 heavy tow trucks for the Swedish army

The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) has signed a contract with the Polish company Szczęśniak Special Vehicles for the delivery of…

2025-03-03 | Rafał Muczyński | 3 minutes

More MSBS Grot rifles for the Polish Border Guard

Fabryka Broni Łucznik-Radom, part of the Polish Armaments Group, and the Border Guard Headquarters have signed a contract for the next…

2025-02-27 | Redakcja | 3 minutes

Illegal Migration to Europe in January 2025

The European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) has published statistics on attempts to illegally cross the EU’s external borders in…

2025-02-24 | Redakcja | 3 minutes

Army & Air Force Exchange opens Expanded Poland Store in Bemowo Piskie

The Army & Air Force Exchange Service opened an expanded store at the Bemowo Piskie Training Area (BPTA), providing enhanced…

2025-03-08 | Redakcja | 2 minutes

Curtiss-Wright to support USMC’s Combat Data Network Program

Curtiss-Wright Receives $18 million follow-on order from U.S. Marine Corps to support Combat Data Network Program with Tactical Communications.

2025-03-08 | Redakcja | 2 minutes

France is considering deploying Rafale jets with nuclear weapons in Germany

As reported by The Telegraph, after a meeting between French President Emmanuel Macron and U.S. President Donald Trump, the Élysée Palace is…

2025-02-26 | Rafał Muczyński | 5 minutes

Sweden will provide Ukraine with new air defense systems

The Ministry of Defense of the Kingdom of Sweden has announced that, as part of the recently announced 18th military…

2025-02-26 | Rafał Muczyński | 4 minutes

Cooperation Agreement between Radmor and WiRan

The Gdynia-based companies Radmor and WiRan have signed a cooperation agreement for the development of projects in the space industry. The…

2025-02-24 | Redakcja | 3 minutes

Bonus Food Project: Meals from Kielce-Based Company LYOFOOD Are Heading to Space

As part of the first Polish mission to the International Space Station, the Kielce-based company LYOFOOD, in collaboration with the European…

2025-02-10 | Redakcja | 7 minutes
Shooting

IWA 2025: WBP Rogów presents Piast rifle

The Wytwórnia Broni Jacek Popiński (WBP Rogów) is presenting a highly anticipated new product at the IWA OutdoorClassics 2025 trade fair…

2025-02-27 | Michał Ihnatów | 3 minutes

Enforce Tac 2025: Sarsilmaz’s Latest Offerings

Sarsilmaz showcased a large part of its product lineup at EnforceTac 2025. The booth featured both long guns and handguns—including a new…

2025-02-26 | Michał Ihnatów | 5 minutes

Enforce Tac 2025: Source Tactical with Ballistic Protection for Women

At the Source Tactical booth, not only popular hydration systems were showcased, but also personal ballistic protection—including armor specifically designed…

2025-02-26 | Michał Ihnatów | 2 minutes

Black Week at Clawgear

The Black Week promotion at Clawgear runs until December 2, 2024. The more you add to your cart, the bigger the…

2024-11-28 | Michał Ihnatów | 1 minutes

Enforce Tac 2025: Source Tactical with Ballistic Protection for Women

At the Source Tactical booth, not only popular hydration systems were showcased, but also personal ballistic protection—including armor specifically designed…

2025-02-26 | Michał Ihnatów | 2 minutes

CuraheeGear introduces the TF-50 uniform set to its product lineup

CuraheeGear introduces the TF-50 uniform set, which includes pants designed specifically for the Commando Military Unit (Jednostka Wojskowa Komandosów) in…

2025-02-18 | Michał Ihnatów | 4 minutes

Enforce Tac 2025 starts on February 24th

Enforce Tac is an international trade fair aimed at law enforcement officers, experts from government agencies, and representatives of the…

2025-01-30 | Michał Ihnatów | 4 minutes

POLSECURE: Holsters HPE Poland offer for uniformed services

At the 3rd International Police and Public Security Fair POLSECURE 2024 in Kielce, Holsters HPE Poland presented its offer for…

2024-05-01 | Redakcja | 2 minutes

IWA 2025: WBP Rogów presents Piast rifle

The Wytwórnia Broni Jacek Popiński (WBP Rogów) is presenting a highly anticipated new product at the IWA OutdoorClassics 2025 trade fair…

2025-02-27 | Michał Ihnatów | 3 minutes

Enforce Tac 2025: Sarsilmaz’s Latest Offerings

Sarsilmaz showcased a large part of its product lineup at EnforceTac 2025. The booth featured both long guns and handguns—including a new…

2025-02-26 | Michał Ihnatów | 5 minutes

Setting Up a Shooting Belt: An Example with Clawgear

To assist with shooting training and beyond, various belts and gear configurations have been developed and customized to suit individual needs. It’s…

2024-11-28 | Łukasz Kołodziejski | 14 minutes

Weapon light: a practical tool for everyday service. How to choose?

In the world of armed forces, where every second can determine the outcome of an operation, precision and effectiveness are…

2024-08-29 | Redakcja | 7 minutes

Over 100% increase in gun permits in Poland in 2024

The Polish Police have released statistical data on firearm permits issued in 2024. An increasing number of Poles now hold…

2025-02-20 | Michał Ihnatów | 5 minutes

Firearms In Poland 2023: Number of permits continues to grow

The National Police Headquarters has released statistics regarding the number of firearm permits and firearms themselves in the hands of…

2024-02-17 | Michał Ihnatów | 5 minutes

5 Best Value ATN Rifle Scopes Under €1500

ATN is a leading manufacturer of daytime optics, smart night vision, and thermal vision technology. The innovative features and ergonomic designs…

2022-11-11 | Redakcja | 8 minutes

MILMAG Visits Grand Power

Grand Power is a Slovak manufacturer of the acknowledged good quality firearms. Take part in our guided tour with English subtitles.

2022-05-23 | Redakcja | 1 minutes

TEST: Direct Action Vanguard Uniform

The Vanguard is a uniform set from the Polish brand Direct Action, designed in collaboration with special forces soldiers. There are…

2025-01-19 | Michał Gaweł | 18 minutes

EOTECH Holographic Sight – History, Technology, Practice

The holographic sight is a device known for nearly 30 years and used by professionals around the world. A favorite sight of many…

2024-09-02 | Michał Gaweł | 12 minutes

EOTECH Holographic Sight – History, Technology, Practice

The holographic sight is a device known for nearly 30 years and used by professionals around the world. A favorite sight of many…

2024-09-02 | Michał Gaweł | 12 minutes

What Does a Fully Equipped Gladius Unmanned Reconnaissance and Strike System Look Like?

In December 2024, WB Group announced the completion of deliveries for the components of the first battery module of the unmanned reconnaissance and strike systems, Gladius. Details regarding the organization of battery modules, as well as the capabilities of the Gladius system components, had been revealed earlier.

The battery modules of the Gladius unmanned reconnaissance and strike systems are designed for aerial reconnaissance using FT-5 unmanned aerial vehicles. Meanwhile, the system’s effectors, intended for precise target engagement, are strike unmanned aerial vehicles (BSP-U), integrated with the TOPAZ fire control system, a nationally developed solution utilized by the Polish Armed Forces.

Launcher vehicles

One of the key components of the Gladius system is the unmanned aerial vehicle launcher. It is mounted on Waran 4×4 vehicles manufactured by Huta Stalowa Wola. The launcher is standardized, allowing for the launch and mission handling of both FT-5 reconnaissance UAVs and BSP-U loitering munitions, including the BSP-UT training variant. The launcher also supports the launch of Warmate 5, 20, and 50 loitering munitions, as well as other systems from the WB Group.


The Waran 4×4 vehicle equipped with a universal launcher, which can serve as a launch platform for BSP-U strike UAVs or FT-5 reconnaissance UAVs / Photo: WB Group

In addition to launching unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), the launcher vehicle also serves another role: it acts as a transceiver station (SNO). The appropriate radio equipment is mounted on a collapsible mast and enables data exchange, such as video feed and telemetry data from the UAVs, as well as transmitting control signals to the aerial vehicles.

The launcher vehicle can operate both stationary and while on the move. When stationary, it utilizes the extended SNO mast, while during movement, it uses the folded SNO mast. In the latter case, communication between battery unit elements is conducted via radio systems. When stationary, the launcher vehicle also has the capability for silent data and audio exchange through wired connections.

UAV Command Vehicles

Another component of the Gladius system is the unmanned aerial vehicle command vehicles. Their primary tasks include commanding a platoon or section, directing BSP-U strike missions, or managing FT-5 reconnaissance missions. The UAV command vehicles are standardized, ensuring that each can conduct missions for FT-5 reconnaissance systems, BSP-U strike systems, as well as BSP-UT training systems.


UAV Command Vehicle on a Waran 4×4 chassis / Photo: WB Group

The transceiver station (SNO) mounted on the mast enables the exchange of video feeds and telemetry data with the UAV, as well as the transmission of control signals to the UAV. Similar to the launcher vehicle, the command vehicle can operate either stationary with the SNO mast extended or on the move with the mast retracted. Communication between the elements of the battery formation is conducted via radio links. When stationary, there is also the option for silent data and audio exchange through wired connections.

In the event of damage or destruction of the platoon or section-level command vehicle, its mission can be carried out to a limited extent by the launcher vehicle.

Battery Module Command Vehicle

The tasks of the Gladius battery module command vehicle include planning, commanding, and managing the battery through the use of the TOPAZ system. These tasks encompass: planning missions for the battery based on orders received from higher command levels, displaying the tactical situation, visualizing friendly force positions (Blue Force Tracking – BFT), commanding the elements of the battery formation, managing target data, planning fire missions, and communicating with higher command levels.

Command vehicle on a Jelcz 6×6 chassis / Image: WB Group

The Gladius battery module command vehicle is capable of processing classified information in two zones with different security levels. It also provides the capability to cooperate with higher command levels through a specialized workstation and communication systems, as well as command and control of subordinate battery assets using radio or wired communications. The vehicle is equipped with a passive SNO radio link, enabling it to receive video feeds from a selected unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) within radio communication range (line of sight).

The container housing the TOPAZ battlefield management systems and communication equipment is mounted on a Jelcz 6×6 chassis.

Mobile Analysis Station

The tasks of the mobile analysis station include analyzing source information recorded onboard unmanned aerial systems (UAS) from imagery intelligence (IMINT), synthetic aperture radar (SAR), and electronic intelligence (ELINT) sensors, as well as communicating with higher command levels.

The station is one of the most innovative elements of the Gladius system. Its role involves collecting and analyzing data from UAVs, not only during reconnaissance missions. For example, loitering munitions use electro-optical systems during their approach to a target. The images are transmitted to the mobile analysis station, where artificial intelligence processes them to detect enemy units.

The same applies to information from FT-5 UAVs traveling to or returning from the area where reconnaissance flights were conducted. This significantly enhances reconnaissance capabilities. The use of artificial intelligence for identifying vehicles or enemy personnel greatly simplifies and accelerates the reconnaissance process, substantially improving situational awareness.

The mobile analysis station can relay recorded and processed intelligence information to specialized reconnaissance systems. It can process classified information within a single secure zone. The station can interact with higher command levels via specialized communication systems and with battery elements via internal communication systems (in the cabin). The vehicle can only operate while stationary.

The operation of the mobile analysis station is supported by the EyeQ artificial intelligence module. This module enables autonomous detection, identification, and classification of objects in real-time. It also allows simultaneous tracking of multiple objects. The EyeQ module includes a comprehensive database of military vehicles tailored to operational requirements. The system boasts a high probability of detecting military vehicles.

It is worth noting that the EyeQ algorithm supports all visual observation platforms within the battery module, from command vehicles to the mobile analysis station, and up to the battery module command vehicle.

Support Vehicles

The vehicle set is further complemented by two additional vehicles. The first is an ammunition vehicle, responsible for transporting unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and warheads. It is also used to assist in placing the FT-5 UAV on the launcher and servicing the UAV after landing. The vehicle is standardized with the ammunition vehicle from the WWR project. One of the features of the Jelcz 8×8 truck is a crane, which facilitates unloading and loading operations. The ammunition vehicle is equipped with the FONET communication platform and the TOPAZ battlefield management system.


Technical Support Vehicle based on the artillery weapon repair vehicle for the Rak company fire module (KMO) / Photo: HSW

The final vehicle is the technical support vehicle. Its role is to provide the capability to repair unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and other vehicles during combat operations. The technical support vehicle is based on the solutions developed for the artillery weapon repair vehicle designed for the Rak company fire module (KMO). The vehicle is also equipped with the FONET communication platform and the TOPAZ battlefield management system.

Strike UAV

The primary combat asset of the Gladius system is the BSP-U strike UAV and the BSP-UT training UAV. Both versions share the same dimensions and performance. The UAV has a wingspan of 2.5 meters, a length of 2.5 meters, and a takeoff weight of 31.5 kg. Its cruising speed ranges from 100 to 120 km/h, with a flight endurance exceeding 2 hours. However, the UAV can accelerate to a speed of 220 km/h (typically during an attack), while its minimum flight speed is 76 km/h. The BSP-U/BSP-UT usually operate at an altitude of 300 to 3,500 meters above ground level, but their maximum ceiling is 5,000 meters above sea level.

The UAV requires a launcher for takeoff, which in the Gladius system is mounted on a Waran 4×4 vehicle provided by HSW. The launcher and system require a crew of four for operation. In the case of the training version, landing is performed automatically in unprepared terrain, and the UAV in this version is reusable. Both versions are powered by an electric engine.


BSP-U (BSP-UT) loitering munitions in the front, with FT-5 reconnaissance UAVs in the back row/ Photo: WB Group

In both versions, communication with the UAV features multiple levels of security. Moreover, despite being loitering munitions, the BSP-U/BSP-UT can serve as a radio signal relay. In the combat version, the UAV can be equipped with either an anti-tank or a high-explosive fragmentation warhead. Furthermore, in the signal relay mode, the strike or training UAV can be used to transmit control signals to other strike platforms, as well as telemetry and video feeds. However, a UAV serving as a communication intermediary can only receive control signals from the command station and act as a source of telemetry data.

FT-5 Reconnaissance UAV

The FT-5 reconnaissance UAVs have a wingspan of 6.4 meters, a length of 3.1 meters, and a takeoff weight of 85 kg. These UAVs typically operate at speeds between 100 and 120 km/h but can reach a maximum speed of 155 km/h. The minimum flight speed is 76 km/h.


FT-5 Reconnaissance UAV / Photo: WB Group

Like UAVs that serve as loitering munitions, the FT-5 performs missions typically at altitudes ranging from 300 to 3,500 meters above ground level, with a maximum ceiling of 5,000 meters above sea level. Takeoffs are conducted using a launcher mounted on a Waran 4×4 vehicle, requiring a four-person crew for operation. Landings are performed autonomously in unprepared terrain.

The FT-5 is available in two propulsion versions: a hybrid version, where an internal combustion engine drives a generator powering two electric motors, and an electric version. The hybrid version provides a flight endurance of over 6 hours, while the electric version enables flights lasting up to 2.5 hours.

The imagery delivered by the FT-5’s electro-optical payload is analyzed using the EyeQ algorithm. This enables object detection to occur onboard the UAV itself. Reconnaissance data is encrypted and transmitted in real time to the UAV section command vehicle, allowing for immediate analysis of the battlefield situation. A range of operationally oriented algorithms supports building situational awareness on the tactical level and facilitates decision-making—for example, implementing rules of engagement (ROE). EyeQ also aids in assessing collateral damage and losses, as well as estimating the likelihood of effects from deployed weapons impacting friendly forces and assets near the target.


The electro-optical payload serving as the primary sensor of the FT-5 UAV / Photo: WB Group

FT-5 SAR

The most significant advancements in the technical capabilities of the Gladius battery module components have occurred in the reconnaissance component. Until recently, FT-5 UAVs used for this purpose were equipped solely with an electro-optical payload. However, in December last year, WB Group executives unveiled two new configurations of this UAV. The first is the FT-5 SAR, equipped with a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR). As emphasized by Piotr Wojciechowski, President of WB Group, the SAR radar was specifically developed for the FT-5 UAV, resulting in compact dimensions that allow it to be mounted on such a small aerial platform. The radar antenna is installed on the right side of the UAV’s fuselage. The FT-5 SAR is available in the hybrid-powered version.

The FT-5 SAR offers entirely new reconnaissance capabilities. It provides ground surface imaging around the clock, regardless of day or night, and, importantly, in conditions of limited optical visibility caused by factors such as fog or cloud cover. It enables observation through fabric materials, facilitating the detection of objects concealed under traditional camouflage nets or other masking methods. The SAR radar also makes it possible to determine whether an observed object is a decoy. A unique feature of synthetic aperture radar imagery is the distinct geometry of shadows in radar images, which differs from shadows produced by visible light.

The FT-5 UAV equipped with a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR). Notable is the radar antenna cover on the right side of the fuselage / Photo: WB Group

FT-5 ELINT

The second variant introducing new capabilities to the reconnaissance component of the Gladius battery module is the FT-5 ELINT. In November 2024, tests were conducted with the FT-5 UAV in its electronic intelligence (ELINT) configuration. This system can provide information about the location and type of emission sources, creating an electromagnetic map of these sources. The reconnaissance equipment was also specifically developed for the FT-5, taking its compact dimensions into account. Importantly, the solutions used are based entirely on domestic technology and are not dependent on any foreign suppliers. The electronic reconnaissance system is mounted on the electric-powered version of the UAV. As emphasized by WB Group President Piotr Wojciechowski, this makes the FT-5 ELINT a critical technology for the Polish state.

The electronic reconnaissance system on the FT-5 allows for the reconnaissance of an area up to 250 km away from the UAV. To achieve this, the FT-5 must ascend to its ceiling altitude of 5,000 meters. At lower altitudes, the reconnaissance range is still significant: 110 km when flying at an altitude of 1,000 meters and 180 km at 2,500 meters. Furthermore, the electric-powered version can conduct flights in electronic silence.

Both variants can be used for radio signal relay. The FT-5 UAVs can serve as intermediaries, transmitting signals between the command station and strike or training UAVs. They can relay control signals to these UAVs and send telemetry data and video feeds back to the command station or command post. An FT-5 acting as a signal relay for BSP-U/BSP-UT can also serve as a source of telemetry data and video imagery.

Organizational Structure of the Gladius System

The operational structure assumes that the Gladius battery module will include three reconnaissance UAV platoons. Each platoon will consist of one command vehicle and one vehicle with a launcher designed for the takeoff of FT-5 UAVs. Due to their weight of 85 kg, support from an ammunition vehicle is required, meaning the platoon will also include an ammunition vehicle used for retrieving the UAV after landing. The launcher vehicle is equipped with a crane to facilitate the mounting of heavier UAVs onto the launch ramp.


The FT-5 UAV is the primary reconnaissance asset used by the Gladius battery module / Photo: WB Group

In addition to UAV platoons, the unmanned systems module will consist of two BSP-U strike platoons. Each platoon will include one command vehicle, four launcher vehicles, and two ammunition vehicles.

The mentioned platoons will be commanded from the battery module command vehicle. The module will also include one technical support vehicle and a mobile analysis station.

All the elements of the Gladius reconnaissance and strike system are connected by the TOPAZ battlefield management system. This system enables the planning of tasks for the battery based on orders received from higher command levels, visualization of the tactical situation, tracking the positions of friendly combat units, commanding battery formation elements, managing target data, planning fire missions, managing frequency allocations for UAVs, planning and managing logistics, and facilitating text communication.

The first operational Gladius Battery Module complete

The end of last year brought several significant developments related to the introduction of the Gladius system into the Polish Armed Forces.

WB Group announced via social media the completion of deliveries for the components of the first Battery Fire Module of the Gladius Unmanned Reconnaissance And Strike System for the 18th Artillery Brigade, part of the 18th Mechanized Division. The module was finalized into a fully complete battery.

WB Group delivered FT-5 reconnaissance UAVs in SAR and ELINT configurations, as well as launcher vehicles mounted on Waran 4×4 platforms. Platoon and section command vehicles entered service, along with the delivery of a mobile analysis station, a battery command vehicle, and the TOPAZ system configured for the Gladius Battery Module.

Acceptance testing of the second Gladius Battery Module also commenced, this time for the 1st Artillery Brigade of the 16th Mechanized Division.

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