The Polish Army has launched a call for proposals from manufacturers and suppliers of unmanned aerial platforms designed to counter hostile drones. Applications can be submitted until July 31, 2026, leaving Polish industry with a tight deadline to deliver ready-made, certified solutions.
The sought-after platform is a lightweight interceptor drone capable of autonomously detecting, tracking, and destroying enemy unmanned aerial vehicles using a „fire-and-forget” mode, operating both day and night. Key requirements include a minimum speed of 150 km/h, a range of at least 1.5 km, target detection from 200 meters, a takeoff mass of up to 2 kg, and the ability to launch in 12 seconds. The system must withstand winds up to 12 m/s and operate in temperatures ranging from -10°C to 40°C.
Off-the-shelf solutions required
According to the announcement published by the Inspectorate of Unmanned Systems of the Polish Ministry of National Defense, the military expects products that are fully ready, not prototypes. Suppliers must provide certified proximity warheads, free samples for testing, training, and technical support. The platforms must be manufactured in EU or NATO countries and use radio frequencies compatible with the Polish Armed Forces. Companies must also hold the appropriate license for manufacturing and trading military equipment.
Industry voices frustration
In the fall of 2025, the Ministry of National Defense simplified procedures for testing and fielding drones through „Decision No. 123.” However, industry representatives have expressed disappointment with its implementation. – The capacity of this procedure is too low to have a real impact. It is a good initiative, but so far it remains mainly an intention – said Marcin Szender, president of MSP InnTech. – We need to make those who decide on tenders a little more courageous and trust Polish capital. It is no feat to take the easy road and yield to lobbying groups – added Janusz Michalcewicz, president of Eurotech.
In response to these criticisms, the Ministry of National Defense stated that the procedures are working. To date, 155 entrepreneurs have responded to the calls, and five testing sessions have been conducted, evaluating 48 solutions (as of June 24, 2026). All tests were completed successfully, although not all designs met the military’s expectations in terms of integrated control systems, radio transmission range, or technical requirements. A few solutions received a positive opinion; two were assessed as positive with limitations, pending re-testing of specific issues.
Progress and next steps
The Ministry also announced an amendment to Decision No. 123, allowing unit commanders to propose specific equipment purchases. This change aims to accelerate the adoption of proven domestic technologies. Final protocols are being prepared for the Minister of National Defense to issue procurement decisions.
Źródło: WNP.PL, Fot. paparazzza / Shutterstock
