Poland Unveils $55M Drone Warfare Push amid Russian Threat

Poland has launched a major shift in its defense strategy, pledging nearly $55 million (PLN 200 million) to accelerate the deployment of unmanned systems across its military.

“We are embarking on a drone revolution,” said Secretary of State Cezary Tomczyk during a press briefing in Warsaw. “The Polish Armed Forces are entering a new era where unmanned systems will be a key pillar of defense.”

Half the funding will support training infrastructure, with the rest allocated to drone purchases. Tomczyk added the total could double if the domestic industry is prepared to deliver.

“Ukraine changed everything. Russia’s aggression proved drones are no longer experimental—they are decisive,” he said.

Fast-track procurement bypasses standard law

A special act under parliamentary review will allow the military to bypass public procurement law. Once tested, drones can be directly acquired under urgent operational needs.

“Our goal is for unmanned systems to become standard equipment for every combat unit,” Tomczyk said.

Drone Center to coordinate national capability

Poland will establish a central Drone Center at the Air Force Institute of Technology, codenamed SZERSZEŃ. It will test, develop, and deploy drones across air, land, and sea, integrating efforts from military institutes, private firms, and the Cyberspace Defense Forces.

AI and 3D printing integrated into drone forces

Drone labs are being set up within operational units, special forces, and the Territorial Defense Force. These labs will handle design, servicing, and modifications—including through 3D printing.

Tomczyk highlighted software and artificial intelligence as core priorities. “The Polish Army is the third in the world to launch an Artificial Intelligence Implementation Center (CISI). We want AI embedded in all unmanned systems.”

East Shield drone buildup and testing underway

The drone initiative supports the broader East Shield national defense plan. Since January, 455 technology proposals have been submitted, with 100 related to unmanned systems. The ministry has shortlisted 41 suppliers offering drones for land, air, and maritime use.

At the briefing, five military research institutes signed agreements to test 90 drone platforms. These will be evaluated in nine military units, with first deliveries expected between September and October.