Poland Develops StormRider Naval Drone Able to Launch Strike UAVs

Poland has presented the StormRider naval drone, designed for reconnaissance and strike missions.

The drone was developed by WB Group, a defense technology company.

It is intended for operations in marine and coastal conditions, particularly to enhance naval capabilities.

StormRider can operate autonomously or alongside ships, expanding the effectiveness of reconnaissance, patrols and the protection of strategic waters.

Its missions include defending ports, raids, anchorages and critical maritime infrastructure.

The drone can also be used in counter-sabotage operations, broadening its role in maritime security.

The platform is fitted with advanced sensors, including navigation radar, sonar and an echo sounder, providing continuous environmental monitoring.

It also carries optoelectronic systems: a surveillance head with a day channel, a thermal imaging camera and a laser rangefinder.

Its strike options include the remotely operated ZMU-05N combat module or a WARMATE TL launcher for loitering munitions.

With these systems, StormRider can track, identify and strike targets at long range without deploying crewed ships.

The automated design allows remote or semi-autonomous operation, reducing risks to personnel and ensuring efficiency in high-threat environments.

In April, Poland demonstrated a prototype of a surface-based naval drone similar to Ukrainian models.