Poland plans to complete a new anti-drone defence system along its eastern borders within two years, following repeated incursions by suspected Russian drones from Belarus. Deputy defence minister Cezary Tomczyk said initial capabilities could be operational within six months, with full completion expected in 24 months.
The new system will be integrated with older defences and use layered protection, including machine guns, cannons, missiles, and drone-jamming technology. Some components are intended only for wartime use due to safety risks in peacetime. The move follows incidents in which multiple drones entered Polish airspace, prompting airport closures, fighter jet responses, and minor damage on the ground, which officials described as Russia testing Poland’s defences.
The project is expected to cost over €2bn and will be largely funded through European SAFE defence loans, with some national funding. Alongside the anti-drone wall, Poland is reinforcing borders with Belarus and Kaliningrad under the Eastern Shield programme, including building rapid-response logistics hubs in border municipalities.
The Polish border with Belarus in the Podlasie region, where fortifications will be aimed at preventing any future Russian invasion. Photograph: Jędrzej Nowicki/The Guardian
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