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Polish Army to Enhance Strike Capabilities with Advanced GLADIUS Reconnaissance Drone System.
On June 27, 2024, the Polish WB Group released an image of the advanced GLADIUS system, which will soon be delivered to the Polish Army, enhancing its reconnaissance and strike capabilities with the acquisition. This aerial drone system, equipped with advanced sensors and effector systems, integrates national communications and a fire control system, as well as complex data analysis supported by artificial intelligence. It aims to significantly extend the capabilities of the Polish Missile and Artillery Forces (Wojska Rakietowe i Artyleria) to detect targets and engage in long-range strikes.
WB Group GLADIUS Reconnaissance Drone System mounted on Waran 4×4 chassis (Picture source: WB Group)
The GLADIUS system is designed to accurately strike important targets at distances of over 100 km from the launch point. This reconnaissance and attack complex allows for full operational autonomy. The reconnaissance drones included in the Gladius system observe the battlefield and detect targets, which are then classified and qualified to be destroyed by the attack drones.
Before the scheduled delivery in December, the GLADIUS system is undergoing a series of tests to verify the functionality of its components as well as the entire system. These tests include the evaluation of the unmanned search and strike systems BSP-U (Bezzałogowy System Powietrzny – Uderzeniowy) and their warheads.
During a briefing by the Chief of Missile and Artillery Forces, the GLADIUS system was presented to future users. The artillerymen were able to familiarize themselves with the system's elements, both during the presentation and through operations using command vehicles and launchers.
The battery module of the GLADIUS system is intended for the Missile and Artillery Forces of the Land Forces. It is used for aerial reconnaissance and strike missions, carried out by specialized unmanned aerial platforms. GLADIUS is an entirely Polish design, with all components connected by the integrated combat management system TOPAZ. The C2 solutions include the FONET digital communication platform for vehicles, computer terminals, active LAN and WAN network elements, tactical radios, and integration performed by WB GROUP.
The GLADIUS system includes two basic variants of unmanned aerial vehicles. The FT-5 family systems are intended for reconnaissance missions and are equipped with various sensors allowing the detection and tracking of objects in visible and radio-electronic emissions. BSP-U systems are used for strike missions with various types of warheads, including explosive and HEAT warheads. The BSP-UT training variant is a reusable platform that performs the same missions as the BSP-U, without the capability to destroy targets.
Additionally, the GLADIUS system includes a range of vehicles, including command vehicles and launchers, equipped with a universal launcher for all GLADIUS unmanned platforms, built on a Waran 4×4 chassis provided by HSW S.A. The system is also supported by other vehicles, including logistical and technical support trucks.
With the deployment of the GLADIUS system, the Polish Army equips itself with a powerful tool to enhance its defense capabilities and ensure precise surveillance and strikes on the battlefield.