RZESZÓW / WARSAW — April 29, 2026 : Poland is preparing to test domestically developed military equipment, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), under real combat conditions in Ukraine, as part of a broader effort to accelerate defense innovation and deepen bilateral cooperation with Kyiv.
Deputy Minister of National Defence Cezary Tomczyk said Ukraine provides a unique operational environment due to its ongoing war against a conventional adversary. His remarks were delivered in an interview with the Polish Press Agency and during the Road to URC – Security and Defence Dimension conference held in Rzeszów on April 28, 2026.
Two-Stage Evaluation Framework
According to Tomczyk, Poland will adopt a structured, two-stage evaluation model to validate new systems. In the first stage, equipment will undergo standard testing and verification at domestic military training grounds. Once initial requirements are met, selected systems will proceed to the second stage, where they will be deployed in Ukraine for assessment under active combat conditions.
The approach is intended to generate operational data that cannot be replicated in controlled training environments. Polish officials view battlefield testing as critical to identifying system performance, limitations, and adaptability in modern warfare conditions shaped by high-intensity conflict.
Expansion of Bilateral Defence Cooperation
The initiative forms part of a wider push to strengthen defence-industrial ties between Poland and Ukraine. Tomczyk emphasized increased technology exchange and joint capability development, particularly in drones and counter-drone systems, which have become central to current battlefield operations.
Poland and Ukraine are also considering joint production of unmanned systems, potentially on Polish territory. Officials indicated that such arrangements would depend on establishing a cooperation model that aligns with both countries’ industrial interests while addressing Ukraine’s wartime requirements.
Industry Collaboration and Existing Programs
Tomczyk cited WB Electronics, part of the WB Group, as an example of ongoing cooperation. The company has worked with the Ukrainian military since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion, supplying reconnaissance and strike capabilities.
WB Electronics has established local production of the FlyEye reconnaissance drone in Ukraine and provides Warmate loitering munitions, both of which have been used extensively in operational settings. Polish officials highlighted these programs as a basis for expanding similar joint initiatives across the defence sector.
Focus on Unmanned Systems Development
Poland has increased investment in unmanned technologies in recent years, reflecting the growing importance of drones in reconnaissance, strike operations, and electronic warfare. Current efforts include collaboration with Ukrainian partners to develop what officials describe as a modern “drone armada,” combining Polish funding with Ukrainian operational expertise.
The testing program is expected to support faster refinement cycles for new systems by incorporating real-world performance data. Defence planners aim to use these insights to improve system reliability, adapt designs to evolving threats, and align production with operational needs.
Strategic Context
Discussions on testing and industrial cooperation were also linked to preparations for the upcoming Ukraine Recovery Conference scheduled in Gdańsk in June 2026. The Rzeszów conference brought together government representatives and defence industry stakeholders to coordinate military assistance and explore long-term industrial partnerships.
Polish officials stated that integrating testing, joint production, and technology exchange is intended to strengthen both countries’ defence capabilities while supporting Ukraine’s ongoing operational requirements.
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