Introducing the Gladius 2: Poland’s New Turbojet Strike UAV
WB Group, a leading Polish defense manufacturer, has revealed its latest strike drone, the Gladius 2, also known as Warmate 30. Equipped with a turbojet engine and carrying a 30-kilogram warhead, this drone is designed with low radar and thermal signatures. Development began in September 2022, drawing on combat experience from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The Gladius 2 can be deployed from either a transport container or a specialized launcher, enhancing its tactical flexibility.
The Gladius System and WB Group’s UAV Expertise
The Gladius 2 is part of the broader Gladius system, which integrates the FT-5 Łoś reconnaissance drone with the Topaz combat control platform. Earlier versions of the system featured electric motors and could achieve flight ranges exceeding 100 kilometers. WB Group has an established track record in UAV development, having produced various Warmate models including:
- Warmate 3
- Warmate 5
- Warmate 20
- Warmate 50
These models differ primarily in warhead weight and operational range; for example, the Warmate 3 carries a smaller payload with a reach of up to 70 km.
In May 2026, the Polish Armaments Agency awarded WB Group contracts for over 400 Warmate systems, nearly 200 FlyEye drones, and 12 battery fire modules for the Gladius system. Part of this funding comes from the EU’s SAFE defense loan program. However, WB Group has not clarified if the Gladius 2 (Warmate 30) is included in these orders. Additionally, in 2025, the company established localized drone production facilities in Ukraine, reflecting strategic regional collaboration.
Beyond WB Group, Swedish defense company Saab has outlined plans for its Autonomous Collaborative Platform (ACP) program, aiming to develop a supersonic unmanned fighter jet for the Swedish Air Force by the 2030s. Saab is currently working on two demonstrator prototypes and has already revealed a full-scale drone mock-up.
The development of the Gladius 2 highlights the expanding role of unmanned aerial systems in modern warfare, where drones provide crucial advantages in reconnaissance and precision strike capabilities.
Leveraging lessons learned from the Ukraine conflict emphasizes the necessity of adapting cutting-edge technologies to practical battlefield demands. The ongoing procurement contracts with WB Group underscore the growing regional reliance on UAVs, which is likely to accelerate advances in European defense technology.
The advancements in drone technology are not limited to the Gladius 2. For instance, the U.S. has recently introduced a reusable interceptor that has demonstrated the capability to eliminate over 50 enemy drones in a single mission. This showcases the evolving landscape of aerial combat and the increasing reliance on unmanned systems. To explore more about this innovative approach to drone warfare, check out our coverage on the U.S. reusable interceptor.