GLADIUS Reconnaissance and Strike System
The GLADIUS reconnaissance and strike system is designed for conducting aerial reconnaissance and strike missions using specialized unmanned aerial platforms. GLADIUS can be deployed in a battery formation, within autonomous platoons, or as sections supporting other units. All system components are integrated via the TOPAZ integrated combat management system.
The GLADIUS system may include various types of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), launched from vehicles equipped with a universal launcher, although an independent towed launcher can also be used.
A typical configuration involves the use of FT-5 tactical reconnaissance UAVs in combination with WARMATE 5 or WARMATE 20 loitering munitions, as well as advanced strike variants developed specifically for the Polish Armed Forces, such as BSP-U.
In the configuration selected by the Polish Armed Forces, FT-5 UAVs are employed for reconnaissance missions. They are equipped with sensors that enable the detection and tracking of targets in the visible spectrum (FT-5 IMINT), using synthetic aperture radar (FT-5 SAR), and within the electromagnetic emissions spectrum (FT-5 ELINT).
Strike Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (BSP-U) are used for offensive missions and can carry various types of warheads, including high-explosive fragmentation, thermobaric and anti-tank warheads.
The BSP-UT is a variant used for training purposes. These reusable platforms are equipped with training warheads that match the weight and dimensions of combat payloads. They execute the same mission set as BSP-U units, but without the capability to destroy targets.
An optional component of the GLADIUS system is the Mobile Analysis Station. Its embedded application, part of the TOPAZ command system, allows for the analysis of UAV-recorded data using EYEQ artificial intelligence system. Similar algorithms are also deployed onboard UAVs for real-time image analysis.
Other vehicles that can be integrated into the GLADIUS system include armored command vehicles at the battery and platoon level, which coordinate and monitor reconnaissance and strike operations using proprietary communication systems.
Launcher vehicles, mounted on dedicated platforms, are equipped with a universal UAV launcher, compatible with all unmanned assets in the system. This ensures full interchangeability in the event of launcher damage or destruction.
GLADIUS can also be supported by logistic vehicles: Ammunition Vehicles and Technical Support Vehicles. The former are responsible for transporting UAV systems to launch platforms, while the latter enable damage diagnostics and field-level repairs.