WAT participates in EDF defence innovation programmes: AI, 3D printing and anti-submarine warfare systems

The Military University of Technology (Wojskowa Akademia Techniczna, WAT) is strengthening its position as one of Central and Eastern Europe’s key research and development hubs in the defence technology sector. In the latest round of the European Defence Fund (EDF), the Polish institution is involved in three strategically important projects: MIDAS, SWORD, and R3DSURFIN. Each addresses a different dimension of modern defence operations – from artificial intelligence supporting decision-making, through next-generation anti-submarine warfare systems, to advanced additive manufacturing for military logistics.

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24 april 2026   |   15:07   |   Source: Gazeta Morska   |   Prepared by: Kamil Kusier   |   Print

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MIDAS: Artificial intelligence integrated into defence operations

Among the most forward-looking initiatives is MIDAS (Middleware for Intelligent Defence AI Dialogue Systems), which aims to integrate large language models (LLMs) into military operational environments. The project focuses on embedding AI not as an isolated analytical tool, but as an operational component of command-and-control decision-making processes.

Researchers emphasize that the key objective is to ensure safety, transparency, and controlled interaction between human operators and AI systems. Rather than autonomous decision-making, the system is designed to function within structured, role-based communication frameworks, reducing operational risk while increasing situational awareness and analytical support.

The project is coordinated by Dr. habil. Eng. Marcin Kowalski from the Institute of Optoelectronics at WAT. MIDAS has a total budget of €5 million and is led by a Greek coordinator, with Polish participation also including the Internal Security Platform. The initiative reflects a broader European effort to responsibly integrate AI into defence systems, particularly in decision support, intelligence analysis, and operational planning.

SWORD: next-generation anti-submarine warfare

The SWORD project (Stand-off Anti-Submarine Warfare Operations by Remote Deployment) focuses on developing an advanced, integrated anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capability designed to operate continuously under all environmental conditions.

The system aims to establish a complete “sensor-to-shooter” chain enabling detection, tracking, classification, and engagement of underwater threats at standoff distances of at least 40 nautical miles. The architecture is designed to ensure high detection accuracy while significantly reducing false alarms, a persistent challenge in underwater surveillance.

Technological innovation within the project includes the use of advanced effectors such as the VLWT system and compact, high-speed ASROC-type anti-submarine rockets. The concept also emphasises multi-platform deployment, enabling integration across various naval and maritime defence assets.

The project is led by Dr. Eng. Kamil Sybilski from the Institute of Mechanics and Computational Engineering at WAT’s Faculty of Mechanical Engineering. SWORD has a total EDF budget of €20 million, with the consortium coordinated by a German partner.

From a maritime defence perspective, SWORD represents a shift toward distributed, networked underwater warfare systems capable of rapid response across extended operational areas.

R3DSURFIN: additive manufacturing for military logistics

The R3DSURFIN project focuses on the development of advanced metal additive manufacturing technologies (3D printing) for defence applications. Its objective is to create a comprehensive production pipeline for military-grade components, including spare parts and structural elements for equipment and weapon systems.

The project covers the full lifecycle of additive manufacturing: from material selection and printing processes using steel, aluminium, and titanium alloys, to post-processing techniques such as surface finishing, mechanical treatment, and design optimisation protocols.

A key goal is to enable faster and more flexible production of critical components, particularly in field or expeditionary conditions, where traditional supply chains may be constrained. This capability is expected to significantly enhance military logistics resilience and reduce equipment downtime.

R3DSURFIN is coordinated by Dr. Eng. Krzysztof Grzelak from WAT’s Faculty of Mechanical Engineering. The project has a €3.7 million EDF budget and is led by a Spanish consortium partner.

European Defence Fund and Poland’s growing role

All three initiatives are part of the European Defence Fund programme, the European Union’s principal instrument supporting collaborative defence research and development. In the 2026 funding round, the European Commission selected 57 consortia for financing, with contracts expected to be signed by the end of the year.

EDF priorities include counter-drone technologies, eastern flank security, air defence systems, and space domain capabilities. Polish entities are participating in 27 projects with a total value of approximately €571 million, highlighting the country’s expanding role in European defence innovation.

WAT’s involvement in three major consortia underscores its growing importance as a centre of technological competence in defence-related research and engineering.

Technology shaping future maritime and defence capabilities

Across MIDAS, SWORD, and R3SURFIN, a common theme emerges: the pursuit of faster, more autonomous, and more resilient defence systems capable of operating in increasingly complex threat environments.

From AI-enabled decision support systems, through advanced anti-submarine warfare architectures critical to maritime security, to agile on-demand manufacturing of spare parts, these programmes collectively contribute to strengthening Europe’s defence technological base.

In an era marked by intensified geopolitical competition and rapid technological change, such initiatives are not only enhancing operational capabilities but also advancing Europe’s strategic autonomy in defence innovation.

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