WARMATE attack drones have been in service with the Polish armed forces for several years and are also exported to Ukraine, Georgia, and other countries. The 5.0 version of the Warmate drone carries a larger explosive payload (around 5 kg) and has been modernized. The data transmission channel parameters and the control station have been improved, the software has been modified, and new warhead modifications have been introduced.
The WARMATE 5.0 is analogous to the Russian Lancet loitering munition. The Polish armed forces are currently purchasing it under the Gladius program.
The attack drone is used to strike a wide range of targets, including command posts, anti-aircraft missile positions, and other significant targets.
In the Polish operational doctrine, the Warmate is intended to target radar systems, electronic warfare systems, air defense systems, and enemy concentration positions around training centers or troop concentration points.
The system will also receive upgrades that will allow the integration of advanced artificial intelligence, providing a high level of information processing to identify priority targets.
In Ukraine, WARMATE is used in conditions of heavy signal jamming. It has exclusive video guidance, placing it somewhere between a loitering munition and an FPV drone, and it also has a tracking capability, allowing the munition to lock onto a moving target.
WB Group has announced the development and commercialization of a long-range unmanned aerial strike system, the Warmate 20, which is larger with greater endurance and payload capacity.
This extensive development of weaponry in Poland is part of a strategy to strengthen capabilities at all levels. Poland fears a Belarusian action, made credible from the Polish perspective by the organization of the migration crisis and the opening of a new migration route in 2021. Poland, due to its geographical position and past crises, fears being a target for actions by Slavic countries east of its border and is fortifying itself. Anti-tank mines have been deployed along the border with Belarus, as well as dragon's teeth (anti-tank obstacles) along the fence bordering the two nations. Recently, fortified firing positions with sandbag structures have been set up, and military units and border guards have been deployed in the area. It seems that Poland is actively preparing for conflict, which can be seen as an illustration of a Pre-war Country.
