Gdynia, Poland (Agencies) Aug 2, 2025 — In a strategic shift toward autonomous maritime warfare, Poland has begun covert trials of American-made sea drones, modeled on Ukraine’s successful Black Sea operations. The trials, conducted by the elite JW Formoza special forces unit near the port city of Gdynia, signal Warsaw’s growing readiness for potential conflict with Russia in the Baltic Sea.
The drones, developed by California-based HavocAI, are part of the Rampage Gen 1 and Gen 2 series. Each unit can carry approximately 136 kilograms of payload and is equipped with solar panels to extend operational range. The drones are designed for affordability and scalability, with unit costs reportedly below $250,000.
Polish forces are testing these unmanned surface vessels (USVs) in night navigation, signals intelligence collection, and simulated infiltration missions—tactics inspired by Ukraine’s GUR and SBU operations against Russia’s Black Sea Fleet. The trials reflect a doctrinal transformation in Poland’s naval strategy, emphasizing mass deployment, autonomy, and survivability.
HavocAI’s architecture allows coordinated swarm operations, enabling dozens of drones to be controlled simultaneously. The company recently partnered with Lockheed Martin Ventures to integrate weapons systems and scale production for medium-sized autonomous vessels.
Defense analysts note that Poland’s adoption of these systems marks a shift toward operational readiness in contested maritime zones. The move complements Warsaw’s broader military modernization efforts, including procurement of loitering munitions and South Korean K2 tanks.
As tensions escalate along NATO’s eastern flank, Poland’s investment in autonomous naval platforms underscores its commitment to deterrence and tactical innovation in the Baltic theater.