Poland has completed its first live-fire operational exercise of the Integrated Battle Command System, developed by Northrop Grumman, marking a milestone in the country’s WISŁA medium-range air and missile defense program.
During the event, IBCS engaged and intercepted surrogate air-breathing targets, demonstrating its ability to integrate multiple sensors and shooters into a unified command and control network. The test represented the first international live-fire exercise for the U.S. Army’s air and missile defense modernization program of record.
“This achievement not only highlights the exceptional performance and capabilities of IBCS but also demonstrates Poland’s steadfast commitment to homeland defense and the enhancement of European security,” said Kenn Todorov, vice president and general manager for command and control and weapons integration at Northrop Grumman.
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Poland became the first U.S. ally to acquire IBCS in 2018 and declared initial operational capability for two IBCS-enabled WISŁA batteries in 2024. With the system in place, it is set to field one of Europe’s most advanced air and missile defense forces.
Beyond Poland, Northrop executives have said international interest in IBCS is expanding. Denmark, Germany and Japan are among U.S. allies reportedly preparing to adopt the system, which is designed to complement — not replace — existing European defenses such as Germany’s European Sky Shield initiative.
Todorov has also cited IBCS as a potential backbone for the Golden Dome, the Pentagon’s proposed missile defense architecture. The system can conserve interceptor stocks by using fewer missiles to neutralize incoming threats.
IBCS is in production under a five-year, $1 billion contract awarded to Northrop by the U.S. Army in 2021. Fielding is planned in Europe and the Indo-Pacific.