As part of the RATO-JET project, a launch system for unmanned aerial vehicles with a mass ranging from 80 to 150 kg is to be developed, based on a solid-propellant rocket motor. In addition to the rocket motor, the system will also comprise a separation mechanism and a launcher equipped with an automatic launch mechanism. The system demonstration will be carried out using jet‑powered unmanned aerial vehicles supplied by ITWL.
RATO (Rocket Assisted Take-Off) systems constitute an alternative to the pneumatic launchers currently used by the Polish Armed Forces. They enable, among other things, a radical reduction in the size of launch infrastructure, which significantly facilitates launcher transport and allows launches to be conducted from facilities with limited available space (e.g. ships). They also allow for a reduced dependence of launch operations on weather conditions.
Importantly, within the RATO-JET project, the launch system will be brought to the highest—Technology Readiness Level 9 (TRL 9). The technologies being developed will be based on solutions created under other projects, including solid rocket boosters of the ILR‑33 Amber 2K rocket.
Project Manager: Marek Dzik
Tel.: +48 728 858 627
E-mail: marek.dzik@ilot.lukasiewicz.gov.pl
R&D Manager: Arthur Pazik
E-mail: arthur.pazik@ilot.lukasiewicz.gov.pl
Project duration: 01.03.2026 – 01.03.2028
Programme name: New technologies in the area of national security and defence (PERUN)
Consortium: Łukasiewicz Research Network – Institute of Aviation, Air Force Institute of Technology, ZPS Gamrat Sp. z o.o., Thaliana Space Sp. z o.o.
