Poland requires a stronger counter-unmanned aerial vehicle solution to neutralize low-cost, non-lethal drones, according to Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski. His remarks follow reports that Russia had sent unmanned aerial vehicles into Polish airspace, which later flew over Denmark, Estonia and Romania.
During a press conference on Wednesday, Sikorski emphasized that fighter jets and Patriot missile systems are not practical responses to drone threats. “If we are to defend the NATO airspace from a hypothetical large number of drones on the same night, then we need to fill the gap in the ladder of our responses,” he said.
Defense One reported that prior to the unauthorized entry of Russian drones into Poland, several European countries, including the Netherlands and Italy, had been assisting in ensuring that Polish armed forces were equipped with the necessary technologies to counter such threats. Sikorski also highlighted that the European Union is allocating $150 billion in loans to member states to enhance their counter-drone capabilities.
Gen. Ingo Gerhartz, commander of NATO’s Allied Joint Force Command Brunssum, has similarly called for a stronger regional strategy to address drone threats, recommending that NATO adopt a multidomain approach that includes affordable sensors and effectors.
In addition to seeking European assistance, Sikorski is also counting on support from the United States to deter Russian aggression. He referred to Polish President Karol Nawrocki’s recent visit to Washington, D.C., where President Donald Trump mentioned the possibility of sending more American troops to Central Europe.
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