Poland will send military representatives to Ukraine to learn techniques for shooting down drones, Reuters reported on 11 September.
The move follows Russian-made drones crossing into Polish airspace on the night of 10 September, leaving debris from around 15 drones in various regions. Polish authorities said the incursions were intended as a provocation and to test NATO’s response.
Ukraine has extensive experience defending against Russian drone and missile attacks and will provide guidance for the Polish personnel. The training will give Polish forces practical, hands-on experience under instructors who have faced similar threats on the frontline.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the need for multi-layered air defense systems combining mobile fire units, interceptor drones, helicopters, and aircraft. He noted that expensive systems like Patriot missiles ($2-3 million each) are not practical for intercepting cheaper Shahed drones, which cost roughly $100,000 each.
Zelenskyy also suggested that the Poland drone strike may have been intended to influence Western decisions on supplying air defense systems to Ukraine.
The incident highlights the growing transnational risks of Russia’s drone operations and the importance of NATO allies coordinating defensive measures.
