Poland is embarking on a significant defense collaboration with Anduril Industries to co-develop and manufacture advanced autonomous air systems, focusing on a localized variant of the Barracuda-500M cruise missile. This agreement was formalized through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa S.A. (PGZ), the state-owned defense firm, and the U.S.-based technology company.
The partnership aims to enhance Poland’s defense capabilities by facilitating joint research and development (R&D) and production of the missile system. It also emphasizes the involvement of Polish suppliers throughout the PGZ network, fostering local industry growth and technological advancement.
Adam Leszkiewicz, CEO of PGZ, highlighted the strategic importance of this agreement. “This agreement paves the way for technology transfer, joint R&D, and equipment development, which will strengthen the security of not only Poland but also the entire eastern flank of NATO,” he stated.
The collaboration opens new avenues for PGZ in the fields of cruise missiles and rocket technology, positioning the company as a key player in modern defense solutions. Brian Moran, Vice President of Anduril Europe, acknowledged Poland’s strategic significance, referring to it as a “key strategic partner” for the U.S. organization. He emphasized that localizing production of the Barracuda will enable allied industries and sovereign suppliers to deliver scalable and cost-effective capabilities, enhancing deterrence against potential aggressors.
The Barracuda-500M missile is designed for versatility and performance. Capable of being deployed from various platforms, including the Polish Air Force’s F-16 aircraft and C-130 military transport planes, it has a payload capacity of 100 pounds (approximately 45 kilograms) and an operational range of 500 nautical miles (around 926 kilometers or 575 miles). Its effectiveness spans both static and mobile targets on land and sea.
This missile is part of Anduril’s Barracuda-M line, described as the “most producible cruise missile” in the industry since its unveiling in September 2024. The system’s low-cost, modular design allows for rapid upgrades and integration with advanced components, providing Poland and the broader European market with a flexible response to escalating missile threats.
Designed to minimize tooling requirements, the Barracuda-500M can be assembled using “10 or fewer” assembly tools, enabling swift establishment of production lines. Furthermore, the use of commercially available components across six standard subsystems enhances its overall efficiency and adaptability.
This collaboration not only signals a leap in Poland’s sovereign defense capabilities but also strengthens the collective security architecture within NATO, responding to evolving geopolitical pressures in the region.
