Polish special forces from the JW Formoza unit have begun covert trials of maritime drones developed by American HavocAI company, aiming to replicate the tactics employed by Ukraine's Security Service, Defense Intelligence, and other units. These exercises are part of Poland's preparation for a potential conflict scenario in the Baltic Sea, reflecting the growing recognition of unmanned surface vessels (USVs) as a key component of modern naval warfare.
According to Army Recognition, the drills include simulations of night-time navigation covert infiltration, and intelligence gathering, closely modeling Ukraine's successful use of sea drones against russian targets in the Black Sea. The adaptation of these tactics by NATO forces like Poland indicates not only admiration but also operational learning from Ukraine's asymmetric warfare innovations.
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HavocAI, the startup behind these drones, was founded just 18 months ago but has already fielded two generations of its Rampage USVs. The Rampage Gen 1 and Gen 2 drones are designed for affordability and scalability, capable of carrying approximate 300 pounds (136 kg) of payload. Solar panels extend operational range, and the use Starlink satellite communication systems mirrors Ukraine's methods, enabling long-range, real-time control.
A standout feature of HavocAI's approach swarm control. A single operator can command dozens of the Rampage drones simultaneously from anywhere in the world. This strategy supports saturation attacks or multi-pronged operations, and with each drone costing about $100,000, Poland and other NATO allies can consider large-scale procurement without excessive strain on defense budgets.
HavocAI is not stopping at small drones. It has revealed plans to scale up production to include larger sea drones, ranging from 12 to 45 mets in length. These will be fully integrated into the same command system as the Rampage drone. A recent strategic partnership with Lockheed Martin underscores HavocAI's ambition to become a major player in naval autonomy and swarm warfare.
Poland's secretive adoption of such systems highlights its strategic focus cost-effective, mass-produced naval weapons, acknowledging the shift in naval combat where small, fast, expendable systems can disrupt larger fleets. As tensions rise in t Baltic region, Warsaw appears determined not to be caught unprepared.
Ultimately, these developments signify not only a technological leap but also doctrinal transformatn. By studying Ukraine's playbook and investing in scalable maritime drone warfare, Poland is positioning itself at the forefront of NATO's adaptation to emerging threats at sea.
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