Poland develops indigenous naval drone inspired by Ukrainian models

Poland’s WB Group has presented a prototype surface naval drone, closely resembling Ukrainian designs, Defence24 reported.

The drone was presented at the training ground of the 1st Warsaw Armored Brigade in Wesoła, near Warsaw, during an exhibition featuring around 40 companies specializing in unmanned technologies.

“This is part of our grand strategy: to build an army of hundreds of thousands of drones and the capacity to produce millions,” Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz stated. “Drones evolve quickly, with companies constantly releasing new versions. You cannot simply stockpile them in reserve.”

The Polish naval drone is similar in size to Ukrainian models and is equipped with a water-jet engine, remote control capabilities, and modern infrared cameras.

The combat payload is expected to be housed in the front section. Ukrainian forces have gone a step further, fitting some drones with missile launchers and machine gun turrets.

WB Group, a leading Polish defense manufacturer, is also known for producing the FLYEYE reconnaissance drone.

Poland could successfully deploy naval drones in the shallow waters of the Baltic Sea.

Naval drones are typically used individually or in groups, with nighttime operations offering the greatest effectiveness.

Their low profile, minimal thermal and radar signatures, and small size pose significant challenges to naval forces.

Aerial surveillance, particularly from helicopters, remains the most effective means of detection. In Ukraine, anti-aircraft missiles have been mounted on drones to counter helicopter threats.

Source: Militarnyi