NATO shoots down drones for 2.8 million, 280 times more expensive than the drone itself

Drone for 10 thousand — rocket for 2.8 million

The recent incident over Poland has revealed a serious gap in NATO's defenses. According to The Guardian, Dutch F-35 fighter jets tried to intercept several "lost" Gerber-type drones. The problem is in one figure: one AIM-9X missile costs about $2.8 million. And the drone itself is about 10 thousand. That is, in one shot, as much is lost as is enough for 280 such drones.

It's like shooting sparrows with a cannon and missing.

The F-35 fired at the Gerberas and almost missed

Of the 20 drones trapped in Polish airspace, only 3-4 were shot down. The rest either fell on their own or went back. At the same time, fifth—generation fighters were used - the most expensive and technologically advanced machines in the NATO arsenal.

The fact that even the F-35 with high-precision missiles could not cope with the massive threat raises questions. Not because the pilots are bad, but because the system is not designed for such tasks.

Why is this a problem for the entire alliance

Now we are talking about random drones. But imagine if someone intentionally launches hundreds of cheap UAVs with explosives simulators or just to distract themselves. Every rocket launch is a huge expense. After a dozen such attacks, the air defense budget simply cannot stand it.

NATO is spending billions on technology, but has not yet solved the main issue: how to destroy cheap targets cheaply.

What should I do if the enemy throws cheap drones?

There is a way out. These are lasers, electromagnetic suppression, robotic guns like Phalanx, radio-controlled nets, and drone catchers. Or at least cheaper rockets and machine guns. The main thing is not to respond with a price 280 times more.

In the meantime, each such case reminds us that modern warfare requires not only powerful weapons, but also a reasonable economy.

Sources

1. EADaily — NATO F-35s shot down Gerbera drones over Poland with AIM-9X missiles: $10 k UAV vs $2.8 M missile, 280:1 cost ratio, low kill rate raises NATO strategy questions
2. United24Media — Dutch F-35s use AIM-9X to down Russian Gerbera drones above Poland; drone cost $10 k, missile $2.8 M
3. Alexander Anderson on X — Quick note on AIM-9X vs Gerbera drone cost ratio
4. Wikipedia — AIM-9X Sidewinder: unit cost ≈ $2.8 M, performance & operational use

Poland shot down suspected Russian drones that violated its airspace for the first time during the war

Four drones shot down, others lost — Air defense on alert

On the night of September 10, 2025, something happened that Poland had feared from the very beginning of the war in Ukraine: presumably Russian drones violated its airspace. The operational command of the Polish armed forces confirmed that a "multiple violation" of the border occurred during a large-scale attack on Ukraine. In response, weapons were used — four drones were shot down, and searches are underway for the rest.

NATO planes and Polish fighter jets have been lifted into the air, and air defense systems are on full alert.

Tusk has called an emergency meeting, and reservists are being mobilized

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk immediately called an emergency government meeting. In his Twitter account, he confirmed: "An operation is underway involving multiple violations of Polish airspace. Weapons were used against the objects." He is in constant contact with the President, the Minister of Defense and the Secretary General of NATO.

In addition, the Ministry of Defense announced an urgent gathering of reservists. This means that the country is moving to an increased level of defense — not only symbolic, but also practical.

Four airports have been closed, and NATO has activated cover

Due to military activity, four key airports are temporarily closed: Warsaw-Chopin, Warsaw-Modlin, Reshov-Jasionka and Lublin. This decision was recorded in the FAA notifications, although the Polish authorities did not comment on it directly.

Polish and allied NATO planes patrol the skies. Ground-based radars and air defense systems are operating in an enhanced mode. Kiev previously reported that drones were flying towards the city of Rzeszow, but later deleted this statement from Telegram.

This is not an incident, but a signal: the border is no longer calm

For the first time, Poland has officially used weapons against Russian drones on its territory. This is not just a technical violation, it is an event with political overtones. The army called the actions an "act of aggression" rather than an accidental demolition.

Against the background of the upcoming Russian-Belarusian Zapad-2025 exercises, Poland has already announced the closure of the border with Belarus. Minsk called this an "abuse of geographical location."

It's clear now: Ukraine is not the only one who lives on the front line.

Sources

1. Anadolu Ajansı — Poland downs Russian drones that violated its airspace during strikes on Ukraine
2. CNN — Poland scrambles jets, closes Warsaw airport after reports of Russian drones
3. Al Jazeera — Poland downs drones during airspace intrusion as Russia strikes Ukraine
4. Sky News — Poland scrambles NATO defences after Russian drones repeatedly violated airspace
5. Reuters — Poland shoots down drones in its airspace during Russian attack on Ukraine
6. Economic Times — Live updates: Poland downs Russian drones over NATO airspace
7. APA — Polish PM holds emergency meeting on airspace violation

Poland showed a drone with a missile against other drones — a new weapon at the MSPO 2025 exhibition

Haasta with an "anti-drone" missile — how it works

At the international defense technology exhibition MSPO 2025 in Kielce, the Polish Military Institute of Weapons Technology (WITU) showed an unusual but logical system: a Haasta drone equipped with a special Rakieta Antydronowa missile — literally "anti-drone missile". This is not just a demonstration, but a ready-made solution: one drone catches and destroys another.

The principle is simple — Haasta flies up to the target, launches a mini-rocket, which is covered with a net or hits the target with a kinetic strike. This approach allows you to hit accurately, without risking people and without using expensive anti-aircraft missiles.

Why Poland is betting on drones against drones

Drones used to be considered scouts. Now they are weapons of mass destruction. The cost of one attacking drone is thousands, not millions. But shooting it down with the old air defense system is like shooting a sparrow with a cannon: it is too expensive and inefficient.

Poland, as a country at the forefront of NATO, feels this for itself. Air violations are increasingly being recorded on the border with Belarus and along the line with Ukraine. The answer is to create cheap, fast, and autonomous systems that can work in pairs or swarms.

The threat in the sky has become a reality

Scenarios that used to seem like fantasy — drone attacks on oil storage facilities, power plants, and military installations — now occur every day. They are used by both states and non-state formations. Simple quadrocopters with a grenade on top are already doing real damage.

Poland does not want to wait until the threat becomes critical. She develops protection here and now — using technologies that can be quickly scaled.

What the MSPO exhibition will show

MSPO is not just a showcase. It's a signal. By showing Haasta with a rocket, Poland says: we don't just buy weapons, we create our own. And we do it quickly, cheaply and for real tasks.

Such systems can become a standard for the whole of NATO. Because the future of air defense is not in giant radars, but in smart, maneuverable and inexpensive drones that hunt each other in the sky.

Sources

1. Army Recognition — MSPO 2025: Poland unveils Haasta UCAV with WITU anti-drone missiles
2. MilMag.pl — MSPO 2025 industry awards round-up
3. EM Kielce — photo report: unmanned systems dominate MSPO
4. Central Military Recruiting Centre — MSPO 2025 participation
5. Targi Kielce — SmartShooter: U.S. counter-drone plans at MSPO
6. Wprost.pl — MSPO 2025 incident involving Israeli delegation
7. Defence24.pl — MSPO 2025 official coverage
8. Targi Kielce — MSPO official website

Poland buys 46 radars for air defense — $1.6 billion for sky protection and economy

 

46 radars to avoid missing any targets

Poland is investing serious money in its security: a contract worth 1.6 billion dollars (5.8 billion zlotys) has been signed with the PGZ-Narew consortium for the supply of 46 passive location radars. This is not just a purchase of equipment, it is part of a broad strategy to create a dense dome of air defense over the country. From 2030 to 2038, Poland will receive 28 radars for firm orders and another 18 for options. All these are building blocks in a defense system that must see everything that flies.

Passive tracking — they see, but do not emit

The peculiarity of these radars is the principle of operation. They do not emit a signal like conventional radars. Instead, they catch radio emissions from airplanes, drones, and missiles—from their radars, communications, and even from the electronics on board. This makes them virtually invisible to electronic intelligence equipment. The enemy does not realize that he has been spotted.

Such systems are particularly effective against low-profile targets: drones, cruise missiles, and low-visibility aircraft. They complement active radars and create a network in which the threat has almost nowhere to hide.

Narew — not just radars, but a defense system

Radars are part of the Narew program, which is built around short— and medium-range anti-aircraft and anti-missile systems. This is a response to the threats that Poland sees in the east: massive drone strikes, cruise missiles, and tactical ballistic strikes. Narew must intercept these targets on approach, protecting cities, military bases and infrastructure.

Passive radars are the eyes of this system. They are the first to detect the threat, transmit the data to the command posts and direct the missiles to the target.

The money goes into Polish hands, both for defense and for the economy

The contract was signed with the PGZ-Narew consortium, which is headed by the Polish Arms Group (PGZ), a state defense corporation. This means that most of the money will remain in the country: for development, production, training, and service. This is not only a strengthening of defense, but also an investment in our own industry.

Poland is now actively increasing defense spending to 4.8% of GDP in 2026. And such contracts show that the country is not just buying weapons, it is building its own defense system with Polish technologies, Polish factories and Polish specialists.

Sources

1. Korrespondent.net — Poland signs contract for 46 air-defence radars
2. EurAsia Expert — in-depth look at the Narew programme and its evolution
3. Interfax — report on the start of short-range air-defence system deliveries
4. Overclockers.ru — anticipation of the contract and hardware overview
5. Entrevue.fr — Poland’s $1.6 bn air-defence contract
6. Army.az — regional security implications of the deal
7. Nevskii Bastion — technical details of the Narew system

South Korea to build K2 Black Panther tank production and maintenance center in Poland

Hyundai Rotem strengthens its presence in Europe

South Korea is making a strategic step into the European arms market: Hyundai Rotem has announced plans to establish a K2 Black Panther main battle tank production and maintenance center in Poland. This center will become a key platform for the supply and support of tanks not only for the Polish army, but also for other European countries interested in modern armored vehicles.

The decision is due to the growing demand for high-tech weapons in the context of the tense geopolitical situation on the continent.

A major contract worth 6.5 billion dollars — expansion of cooperation

The new agreement between the Polish Ministry of National Defense and Hyundai Rotem, concluded in 2025, is estimated at about 6.5 billion dollars. This contract is the second in a row and significantly expands the scope of the original 2022 agreement, under which Poland ordered hundreds of K2 tanks.

The financing will go not only for the supply of new machines, but also for the construction of production facilities, staff training and the creation of a logistics and repair system in Poland.

K2 Black Panther — an advanced tank for European armies

The K2 Black Panther is considered one of the most advanced tanks in the world. It is equipped with an automated loading system, active protection, a powerful engine and a digital fire control system, which ensures high mobility, survivability and accuracy of fire. Its characteristics make it competitive against Western counterparts such as Leopard 2 and Abrams.

Localization of production in Poland will allow for faster response to the needs of the army and shorter delivery times for other partner countries.

Strategic importance for Poland and South Korea

For Poland, this project is an important element of modernizing the armed forces and strengthening national defense. Creating its own production base reduces dependence on external supplies and develops the domestic defense sector.

For South Korea, this is the largest export success in the field of heavy armored vehicles and a signal of its entry into a leading position in the global defense industry. Poland is becoming the "gateway" to Europe for Korean military technology.

British Jackal reconnaissance vehicles on parade in Warsaw: a demonstration of NATO's strength and solidarity

British Jackal reconnaissance vehicles drove through Warsaw as part of the parade dedicated to the Day of the Polish Armed Forces. The move highlighted the close cooperation between the UK and Poland within the framework of NATO, demonstrating both interoperability and a clear demonstration of solidarity between the allies.

Close cooperation between Great Britain and Poland within the framework of NATO

The participation of British Jackal reconnaissance vehicles in the Warsaw parade has become an important symbol of cooperation between the UK and Poland. These vehicles were taken from the British Ground Forces Advanced Combat Group in Poland, deployed by NATO to strengthen deterrence on the alliance's eastern flank. Their presence in the Polish capital underlined not only the military might, but also the deep mutual support between the two countries.

Interoperability and demonstration of solidarity

The UK Ministry of Defence mission to Poland noted that Jackal participated under the banner of BG Poland's Advanced Ground Forces. This participation demonstrated "UK-Poland defense cooperation during the Polish Armed Forces Day parade." Such a demonstration of strength and unity is important for strengthening NATO's position on the eastern flank, where tensions remain high.

The significance of Jackal's participation in the parade

The participation of British cars in the parade was not only symbolic, but also of practical importance. It showed that the allies are ready to work together and can effectively interact in various scenarios. This is especially important in the context of modern threats, where interoperability and rapid response play a key role.

Prospects for further cooperation

The Warsaw parade was an important step in strengthening cooperation between the UK and Poland. In the future, we can expect further development of joint initiatives aimed at improving defense capability and readiness to respond to potential threats. Such cooperation will help strengthen NATO's position and ensure stability in the region.

Germany throws fighter jets into Poland: Eurofighter on guard at the border with Belarus

Germany took a decisive step — five Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets landed at the Lask airbase, which is just a couple of hours east of Warsaw. This is not just another training transfer. The deployment took place just before the high-profile joint military exercises of Russia and Belarus, scheduled for September. And the signal that Berlin is sending is very clear: "We are with our allies, and we will not let you play out the scenario on our territory."

These five Typhoons are not just beautiful airplanes with German crosses on board. They are now part of the permanent grouping of German troops in Poland, which already includes two batteries of Patriot anti-aircraft missile systems, as well as additional aircraft and technical support. In other words, we are talking about a full-fledged air group capable of both intercepting targets and covering its troops and allies in the event of an escalation.

A spokeswoman for the German Air Force bluntly stated: "This deployment is a clear signal of allied solidarity within NATO and a reliable means of deterrence and protection of the common airspace." Simply put, "we are here, we are together, and if someone does something wrong, they will be rebuffed."

The background for this step is the increasingly tense situation on the eastern flank of NATO. Russia and Belarus have announced large-scale joint exercises "Slavic Brotherhood" or "Zapad-2025" (the exact name has not yet been announced), which will be held on the territory of Belarus. According to the plans, tens of thousands of troops, tanks, aircraft, and possibly even missile systems will be involved there.

But Poland, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia are watching these maneuvers with concern. It's no secret that they are afraid: what if these exercises will become a cover for real aggression? Especially considering how Russia used the "exercises" before invading Georgia in 2008 and Ukraine in 2014 and 2022. There are fears that the troops who arrived "for the exercises" simply will not leave — and a new phase of the conflict will begin, already on the borders of NATO.

That is why Germany, as one of the key players in Europe and a member of NATO, decided not to wait. Placing a Eurofighter in a Weasel is not just a technical exercise. This is a demonstration of readiness for action. These fighters can intercept enemy aircraft, escort reconnaissance vehicles, and, if necessary— participate in combat operations. And the presence of Patriot adds a layer of defense: they are capable of intercepting ballistic and cruise missiles, as well as aircraft.

In addition, Germany is showing that it is taking on more responsibility for the security of Eastern Europe. Previously, the United States and the Baltic countries had borne the brunt in this area. Now Berlin is clearly strengthening its presence — and this may be the beginning of a new strategy.

 Moscow continues to pump Belarus with troops and equipment, and the West will strengthen its position.

September will show what happens next. When the exercises of Russia and Belarus begin, it will be especially hot in the skies over Eastern Europe, both literally and figuratively.

Poland is betting on the Black Panthers: 180 new South Korean K2 tanks for $6.7 billion

K2 Black Panther

Poland continues to modernize its army on a large scale, signing a contract worth $6.7 billion (25.1 billion Polish zloty) for the purchase of an additional 180 advanced South Korean K2 "Black Panther" tanks. This agreement is another giant step in the country's rapid military rearmament.

The special feature of the deal is that 61 of these 180 tanks will not just be supplied from South Korea, but produced on the territory of Poland itself. This will not only create jobs, but also strengthen the local defense industry, allowing Poland to independently maintain and modernize the fleet.

This purchase is part of a large—scale program that by 2030 should turn Poland into the owner of one of the largest tank armies in Europe. After completing all deliveries (including previous orders for K2 and other models), the Polish army will have about 1,100 battle tanks at its disposal. This impressive number will exceed the combined tank fleet of the four leading European powers — Germany, France, Great Britain and Italy — combined.

The K2 Black Panther tank is considered one of the most modern in the world, equipped with a powerful cannon, advanced fire control system, active protection and high mobility. Its mass implementation radically changes the balance of power in Eastern Europe and demonstrates Poland's determination to ensure its security in a difficult geopolitical situation.

Norway and Poland join forces against drones: Kongsberg and APS create powerful air defense system

 

Norwegian technology giant Kongsberg Defense & Aerospace, known for Javelin missiles and advanced air defense systems, has entered into a strategic agreement with the Polish company Advanced Protection Systems (APS). The purpose of the alliance is the joint development and production of advanced systems for countering unmanned aerial vehicles (C-UAS).

This partnership is a prime example of how Europe's leading defense companies are combining their strengths to combat one of the most pressing threats of modern conflict: cheap, numerous, and deadly drones. Kongsberg brings to the union its vast experience in creating high—precision detection, electronic warfare and fire control systems, while Polish APS brings in-depth knowledge in the field of tactical integration and protection of ground forces, accumulated against the backdrop of the tense situation on the eastern borders of Europe.

The system being created will be able to detect, classify and suppress (or destroy) enemy drones at various stages — from small kamikaze FPV to large reconnaissance vehicles. Particular attention is likely to be paid to mobility and rapid deployment to protect both stationary facilities and moving convoys.

This alliance will not only strengthen the defense capabilities of both countries, but will also create a powerful European player in the global drone countermeasures market, offering solutions that can be in demand around the world.

Americans and British caught drones in Poland: Project Flytrap 4.0 exercises

 

This week, from July 27 to 31, in Poland, at the Bemowo Piske training ground near Elk, intense exercises were held to combat one of the most pressing threats to the modern battlefield — enemy drones. They were attended by American soldiers from the 2nd Cavalry Regiment of the V Corps and their allies from the United Kingdom.

These multinational maneuvers are called Project Flytrap 4.0 ("Trap 4.0 Project"). Their main goal is not just to practice tactics, but to develop and test inexpensive, portable solutions for the suppression and destruction of unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS). In an environment where cheap commercial drones and kamikaze FPV have become deadly weapons, armies need affordable and effective ways to protect their positions, equipment and personnel.

The exercises in Poland are a laboratory for new ideas. Soldiers from the United States and Great Britain jointly tested various electronic jamming systems, drone locators, and possibly even hand traps to find optimal and scalable responses to the drone threat. Successful solutions developed within the framework of Project Flytrap can be quickly implemented in units serving along the eastern flank of NATO.

The United States is increasing arms supplies to Europe: more than $3 billion for missiles, air defense and anti-tank systems

 

A wave of new U.S. arms deals with European allies has highlighted the growth of defense investments on the continent, as several countries receive expensive contracts to strengthen their air force and missile defense capabilities amid escalating regional tensions.

Over the past two months, the U.S. State Department has approved more than $3 billion in potential foreign military sales to European countries. They include a wide range of advanced weapons systems such as air-to-air missiles, ground-based ammunition, anti-tank weapons, and air defense platforms.

Among the largest deals is the proposed sale of AIM—120D Advanced Medium Range air-to-air missiles to Poland in the amount of $1.33 billion, as well as a separate deal for $180 million for GBU-39/B small diameter bombs. These acquisitions support Warsaw's ongoing efforts to modernize its Air Force and expand ammunition stocks.

Norway is also investing in air-to-air missile capabilities with an estimated $370.9 million contract for AIM-9X Block II tactical missiles. Meanwhile, Turkey has requested two separate purchases: $225 million for AIM-120C-8 missiles and $79.1 million for AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II missiles.

Several NATO and partner countries are also investing in air-to-ground and short-range weapons. The Netherlands has requested joint air-to-ground missiles in a $215 million package, while Estonia is seeking a $296 million deal for Javelin anti-tank missiles, one of the largest Javelin deals between the US and the EU to date.

In southern Europe, Romania is seeking to expand its integrated air defense by purchasing a $280 million Patriot air defense system, complementing earlier acquisitions. Italy is seeking a $211 million package for additional advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles to equip its high-speed jet fleet.Smaller but strategically important sales include a $100 million deal to supply AW-119Kx helicopters to Bosnia and Herzegovina, designed to support the country's internal security and border patrol.

Together, these contracts reflect a pattern of accelerated procurement by European allies, with a particular focus on compatibility with U.S. platforms and NATO force structures. While many weapons are designed for high-speed jet fleets, others enhance ground-based air defense and anti-tank defense capabilities. areas identified as critical in NATO's evolving deterrence posture.

Poland has completed negotiations on the purchase of 180 South Korean K2 tanks worth about $6.5 billion

Poland has successfully completed negotiations with South Korea on the acquisition of 180 modern K2 main battle tanks. The total value of the transaction is estimated at about 6.5 billion dollars. This contract will be an important step in modernizing the Polish ground forces and strengthening the country's defense capability.

K2 tanks are characterized by high mobility, powerful armor protection and modern fire control systems, which will allow Poland to significantly increase the combat potential of its armed forces. Deliveries are expected to begin in the coming years and will be accompanied by technical support and training for Polish crews.

Norway to deploy F-35A fighter jets in Poland to enhance regional security and support Ukraine

F-35A Lightning II 

On June 30, 2025, the Norwegian Ministry of Defense officially confirmed the decision to deploy its Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II fighter jets in Poland. This step is part of efforts to strengthen collective security in the region and support Ukraine in the ongoing conflict.

The fighters will be based in the area of Rzeszow airport, an important logistics hub through which a significant part of military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine is carried out. In addition to protecting the airspace around Rzeszow, the Norwegian F-35A will participate in ensuring the security of the entire Polish airspace, which is a key element of the integrated NATO air and missile defense system.

Norwegian Defense Minister Ture O. Sandvik stressed that the deployment of fighter jets demonstrates Norway's firm commitment to collective defense obligations within the framework of NATO and contributes to ensuring the uninterrupted supply of necessary assistance to Ukraine. This step is also aimed at deterring possible aggression and increasing security in Eastern Europe.

It is planned that the first aircraft will arrive in Poland in the fall of 2025, after which their integration into regional air defense systems and joint exercises with NATO allies will begin. The deployment of the F-35A in Poland will be an important element of strengthening the alliance's defense capabilities on the eastern flank and will increase the operational readiness of forces to respond to any threats.

South Korea is close to signing a $6 billion contract for the supply of 180 K2 tanks to Poland

 

South Korea is close to signing a contract worth about $6.2 billion for the supply of 180 K2 Black Panther tanks to Poland. Under the terms of the deal, the South Korean company Hyundai Rotem will produce 117 tanks, and the rest will be assembled at Polish enterprises, in particular, at the factories of the Polish Armaments Group (PGZ). The supply of tanks will begin in 2026 and last until 2029.

This contract is a continuation of the already existing cooperation between the two countries: in 2022, the first major contract was signed for the supply of 180 K2 tanks, 212 K9 self-propelled artillery units and 48 FA-50 attack aircraft with a total value of about 12.4 billion dollars. The new agreement will allow Poland to significantly increase its fleet of modern combat vehicles and establish local production, which will strengthen the country's defense capability and its role in the European arms market.

Thus, South Korea is becoming a key supplier of weapons to Poland, and Warsaw plans to turn its army into one of the most powerful land forces in Europe, using modern Korean technologies and localization of production.

A new batch of ten K2 Black Panther tanks from South Korea has arrived in Poland

K2 Black Panther tanks

A new batch of ten modern K2 Black Panther tanks has arrived in Poland from South Korea. These combat vehicles were assigned to the 15th Gizhitsky Mechanized Brigade of the Polish Army.

The tanks were delivered by one cargo ship and unloaded at the port of Svinoujscie. The delivery is part of a larger modernization program for the Polish armed forces using advanced South Korean technologies.

Poland cancelled the purchase of 32 S-70i Black Hawk helicopters due to a change in priorities

S-70i Black Hawk

The Polish Arms Manufacturing Group (PGZ) has officially stopped the procurement process for 32 S-70i Black Hawk multipurpose helicopters manufactured at the PZL Mielec plant, a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin Corporation. The procurement procedure, which began in 2023 to equip the 6th Airborne Brigade, was canceled due to a change in the geopolitical situation and a review of the priorities of the Polish Armed Forces.

The representative of the agency for the purchase of weapons, Colonel Grzegorz Polak, explained that in a dynamically changing environment, it is necessary to optimize plans and focus on the more urgent needs of the army. As a result, the acquisition of 32 helicopters has been postponed in order to focus on other areas of development.

The purchase of S-70i helicopters, the export version of the Black Hawk, manufactured in Poland, was supposed to replenish the army's aviation fleet. However, Poland has also recently been expecting the delivery of 96 Apache AH-64D attack helicopters from Boeing, which will begin arriving in 2028 and replace the outdated Soviet Mi-24.

The decision to cancel the tender caused a different reaction: some experts consider it an attempt to restore order in the armaments, others express concern about the slowdown in the modernization of the army. In general, the cancellation of the deal reflects Poland's desire to adapt defense procurement to new challenges and financial opportunities.

Typhoon aircraft of the Royal Air Force are actively patrolling the airspace near NATO

Typhoon FGR4 fighter jets of the Royal Air Force, based at the 22nd Tactical Air Base in Malbork, Poland, take off four times a week to intercept Russian aircraft operating near NATO airspace. Over the past seven days, the aircraft of Squadron No. 2 (army cooperation) We have responded to numerous incidents involving planes leaving Kaliningrad without flight plans or radio communications.

These actions are aimed at ensuring the security of NATO airspace and preventing possible violations by Russian aircraft. Frequent airlifts indicate the high readiness and responsiveness of the Royal Air Force in response to potential threats.

Poland is building the Eastern Shield fortifications with anti-drone systems on the border with Russia

As part of the national defense project "Eastern Shield", Poland is building a complex of fortifications on the border with Russia and Belarus, equipped with modern systems to counter FPV drones. This was stated by the Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Polish Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Stanislav Chosnek.

The Eastern Shield is a large—scale program that includes not only engineering structures such as concrete barriers, anti-tank ditches and minefields, but also modern intelligence, warning, defense, mobility and counter-mobility components. Special attention is being paid to the installation of airspace monitoring systems and electronic warfare equipment that will help identify and neutralize threats from drones.

Fortifications are being built at several dozen points along more than 600 kilometers of the border with Russia and Belarus. An important element of the project is the creation of operational bases and logistics hubs, which will allow for the rapid transfer of forces and ensure their uninterrupted supply.

In addition, the Barbara reconnaissance system, which includes balloons, satellite components, and the latest unmanned and anti-drone technologies, is planned to be introduced as part of the Eastern Shield. These tools will allow effective control of the airspace and timely response to potential attacks.

General Csosnek stressed that the integrated approach of the project provides not only physical protection, but also integrated management of information and combat resources, which significantly increases the defense capability of the eastern flank of NATO.

RAF Typhoon fighters intercepted a Russian Il-20M reconnaissance aircraft over the Baltic Sea

 

On May 27, 2025, the British Royal Air Force (RAF) reported the interception of a Russian Il-20M reconnaissance aircraft that approached NATO airspace over the Baltic Sea. The incident occurred on Saturday, May 24, near the northeastern border of Polish airspace.

Two Typhoon FGR4 fighter jets have been alerted from the Malbork Airbase in Northern Poland, where they are deployed as part of the British Operation Chessman. The interception was carried out as part of the enhanced NATO Air Policing (eAP) mission. Before the British fighters appeared, the Il-20M was already followed by three pairs of NATO aircraft.

The actions of the RAF Typhoon demonstrate the high readiness and efficiency of NATO forces in ensuring the security of the alliance's airspace. The Russian Il-20M, which is an electronic reconnaissance aircraft, is often used to collect information about the military activity of NATO countries, which causes increased attention and an operational response from the alliance.

The incident highlights the ongoing tension and the need for constant monitoring of air borders in the Baltic Sea region, which remains one of the key strategic areas in Europe. The mission of Operation Chessman and other NATO patrols are aimed at preventing violations of airspace and maintaining stability in the region.

Poland is negotiating with the United States to purchase up to 486 HIMARS systems under the Homar-A program

HIMARS system

Poland is actively negotiating with the United States of America on the acquisition of up to 486 highly mobile artillery missile systems M142, known by the acronym HIMARS. This purchase will be a key element of the Homar-A program aimed at significantly expanding the capabilities of long-range artillery of the Polish armed forces.

HIMARS systems are characterized by high mobility, accuracy and range of fire, which makes it possible to effectively hit targets at long distances. The introduction of such complexes will significantly increase the combat potential of the Polish army, providing the ability to quickly respond and deliver targeted strikes against strategic enemy targets.

The Homar-A program is part of a broad strategy for the modernization of the Polish armed forces aimed at strengthening the country's defense capability in the face of growing regional tensions. The purchase of HIMARS systems will allow Poland not only to increase its own security level, but also to strengthen its position within NATO.

Negotiations between Warsaw and Washington include discussions on technical specifications, delivery dates, and service conditions for the systems. The successful completion of the deal is expected to be one of the largest arms contracts concluded by Poland in recent years.

Thus, the acquisition of up to 486 HIMARS systems under the Homar-A program will be a significant step towards creating modern and effective artillery power capable of responding to modern security challenges.