Defence innovation is reaching new heights – the HEDI OPEX 2025 experimental campaign officially kicked off on 5 June at the Italian Army’s CEPOLISPE test centre near Rome. This is the first initiative of its kind in Europe, organised by the European Defence Agency (EDA) through the EU Hub for Defence Innovation (HEDI). Its goal is to accelerate the deployment of advanced autonomous technologies within the armed forces of EU Member States.
Starting on 9 June, six leading European technology companies – including the Łukasiewicz Research Network – PIAP institute from Poland – began testing their solutions under realistic operational conditions, side by side with European armed forces. The campaign will run until the end of July and features dynamic field scenarios involving both unmanned ground and aerial systems.
Łukasiewicz – PIAP is contributing to OPEX 2025 with its innovative PIAP MULES solution, developed on the basis of its proven mobile platforms, PIAP HUNTeR and PIAP IBIS. The system is tailored for autonomous logistics, CASEVAC, and reconnaissance missions in the demanding context of multi-domain warfare. These systems are equipped with autonomous mobility functions and the ability to exchange data with other unmanned systems and Command & Control (C2) infrastructure via standardised communication interfaces. Such interoperability is essential for modern, integrated military operations.
“Our participation in OPEX 2025 confirms the readiness of our technologies to operate in challenging, operational environments. We are proud to be part of this groundbreaking initiative aimed at implementing innovation in European defence in a real and practical way,” emphasised Prof. Piotr Szynkarczyk, PhD Eng., Director of Łukasiewicz – PIAP.
The OPEX campaign is a key element of EDA’s strategy to accelerate the development and adoption of technological solutions across EU armed forces. By bringing together industry, end-users, and research and development environments, HEDI creates a unique space for joint experimentation and the rapid deployment of innovations.
