Poland is preparing to deploy what officials describe as Europe’s most advanced anti-drone defense network, reflecting a wider effort to strengthen national security amid persistent threats along its eastern border. The initiative represents a key step in Warsaw’s broader military modernization strategy and highlights its role within NATO and the European Union.
With Over 1,700 Drones Launched in a Week, Ukraine Presses Allies for Immediate Air Defense Support
Drone Activity Spikes Near Eastern Frontiers
In recent years, Poland has faced increasing concerns over drone activity, particularly near its borders with Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia’s Kaliningrad enclave. The ongoing war in Ukraine has accelerated the use of drones in both surveillance and combat roles. Polish authorities have recorded multiple drone incursions, prompting fears of potential espionage or military probing operations.
According to The Brussels Times, Polish Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz described the planned system as “the most important anti-drone shield in Europe.” According to officials, the project aims to secure the entire eastern frontier through layered defense mechanisms. These include early warning systems, jamming technologies, and direct interception capabilities.
Beyond local threats, Poland’s actions are also shaped by its commitment to the broader NATO alliance. As one of the alliance’s easternmost members, the country plays a critical role in monitoring and defending the eastern flank. Enhancing its ability to neutralize low-cost, unmanned threats aligns with the alliance’s evolving focus on hybrid warfare and irregular tactics.
Defense Spending Hits Historic Levels
Poland has dramatically increased its military spending, reaching nearly 5% of GDP, the highest among NATO countries by proportion. This reflects both immediate security concerns and a long-term ambition to build a robust, modern defense infrastructure.
The anti-drone project is estimated at €2 billion, though the exact figure remains unofficial. Negotiations have moved quickly, reflecting both urgency and political consensus around the issue. The Polish Armament Agency has led talks with a range of foreign and domestic defense partners.
Two notable partners include Anduril, a U.S. defense tech company known for advanced drone and sensor systems, and Kongsberg, a Norwegian firm with expertise in integrated air defense. The system will rely on a mix of national production and foreign technology, ensuring a balance between operational independence and capability enhancement.
Poland, Ukraine Step Up Joint Defence Efforts
Poland’s push for improved drone defenses coincides with growing cooperation between Warsaw and Kyiv. Officials have expressed interest in adopting some of Ukraine’s battlefield-proven drone technologies, developed and refined during the conflict with Russia.
In parallel, Poland has offered to transfer MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine, reaffirming its support for Kyiv. These actions are part of a broader strategy in which Warsaw aims to be both a security provider and a military innovator in the region.
