Poland Fast-Tracks Drone, Counter-Drone Systems for Military Use

Poland has moved to fast-track the entry of drones, unmanned weapon systems, and counter-drone technologies into its armed forces with new regulations signed on September 12.

Secretary of State at the Ministry of National Defense Cezary Tomczyk approved Decision No. 123/MON, which sets out a streamlined process for testing and approving unmanned systems. The rules, tied to the Special Act on strategic defense investments that took effect September 6, allow the Polish Armed Forces to bypass public procurement procedures once systems are field-tested and approved.

“This month, the latest solutions on the market – currently nearing the end of testing as part of the ‘Iron Defender 25’ exercise – will be delivered to the Polish Army,” Tomczyk said. “We are simplifying the system for acquiring innovative technologies for the military. This gives Poland real capabilities to effectively respond to modern challenges.”

The new framework centralizes testing under designated defense units, distributes evaluations across multiple sites, and subjects suppliers to counterintelligence checks. Oversight will be managed by the Inspectorate of Unmanned Troops of Weapon Systems.

The changes come as Poland accelerates its “East Shield” defense program. Earlier this year, the Ministry of National Defense collected more than 500 technology proposals from industry and academia. Military experts shortlisted 200 solutions, with nearly 40 now being tested in the “Iron Defender 25” exercise by the 18th Mechanized Division and the Territorial Defense Force.

Among the systems under trial are unmanned aerial and ground platforms, radars, and detection tools designed to boost situational awareness and combat readiness.

On September 18, the U.S. State Department approved a possible $780 million Foreign Military Sale to Poland for 2,506 FGM-148F Javelin missiles, 253 Javelin Lightweight Command Launch Units, and related logistics, training, and support.