The Polish government is accelerating its shift towards drone warfare, as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz emphasized the importance of unmanned systems in all branches of the armed forces.
Speaking at the annual military briefing on Wednesday, he stated that the Polish army will integrate flying, ground, surface, and underwater drones across its military units, in a significant effort to modernize Poland’s armed forces and prepare the military for a new era of warfare.
“The future of all types of armed forces lies in drone troops,” Kosiniak-Kamysz said. “We are forming new military components with thousands of drones in every division.”
The Ministry of National Defense aims to integrate drone technology within all branches, enhancing training programs and fostering collaborations with state and private companies. The long-term vision includes securing contracts for mass drone production to ensure rapid deployment in times of need.
“Our strategy is to integrate drone systems, train all military units, and equip them with drones of various capabilities,” said Kosiniak-Kamysz. “We need companies that are committed to long-term contracts with the army, ready to manufacture hundreds, even thousands of drones when necessary.”
Reflecting on Poland’s military progress in 2024, Kosiniak-Kamysz noted the expansion of the armed forces, particularly in the Territorial Defense Forces, dismissing rumors of unit liquidations as “great nonsense.” He highlighted the establishment of new tactical brigades and investments in modern defense strategies.
The Polish military saw an increase of 14,000 personnel last year, bringing the total armed forces to 206,000 soldiers, including professional troops, voluntary military service members, and active reserves. The number of professional soldiers alone rose by 10,000, reaching 144,000 at the start of this year.
Kosiniak-Kamysz expressed satisfaction with the progress made in the past year, particularly in maintaining and strengthening unity within the defense sector. He reiterated the government’s commitment to military transformation and security investments.
“Transformation is a key issue,” he stated. “One of our primary goals last year was investing in security, modernization, and the transformation of the armed forces.”
During the same briefing, President Andrzej Duda addressed the geopolitical landscape, citing Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine as a major destabilizing factor for the region. He stressed the immediate and tangible threats facing Poland and called for continued vigilance and preparedness.
“We certainly have many security challenges ahead,” Duda warned. “The threats we face today are more direct and tangible than ever before.”
The president also paid tribute to Polish soldiers serving on the nation’s eastern border with Belarus, acknowledging the sacrifices they have made. He honored Sergeant Mateusz Site, the first Polish soldier to lose his life in direct border defense since World War II.
