The Ministry of Defense of Poland announced plans to conduct tests of Polish weaponry, including counter-unmanned aerial systems, directly on the frontlines in Ukraine. Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz emphasized that Ukraine’s expertise in drone manufacturing is substantial and significant for Poland to leverage.
“We are keen on ensuring that our capabilities and testing of weapons occur in conditions allowing for a thorough evaluation of their functional efficacy. Cooperation with Ukraine, particularly at the industry level, holds strategic importance for us,” the minister stated.
Earlier, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk declared that the establishment of the Polish drone army would benefit from Ukrainian experience and technical expertise. As early as 2025, the Polish Ministry of Defense expressed its intent to develop a national counter-drone system independent of the European Union’s “Drone Wall” initiative.
Deputy Defense Minister Cezary Tomczyk clarified that Polish companies are intended to secure at least half of the contracts under this program. Furthermore, Poland’s counter-drone system is potentially to be integrated with the European UAV systems.
The funding of this initiative is planned through the EU SAFE credit program, the specific details of which have yet to be disclosed. Considering Poland’s geographical proximity to Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia, the country has received the largest tranche under the SAFE program, amounting to €43.7 billion.
In the context of heightened security concerns, there is growing interest among Polish civilians in survival courses, military academies, and shooting ranges, amidst fears of potential Russian aggression.
