Poland becomes key hub for Chinese drone parts amid Ukraine war

Poland has emerged as a major importer of Chinese drone components following Beijing’s 2024 export ban to Ukraine and Russia, with parts flowing both east to Ukraine and remaining in use by Polish authorities, Dziennik Gazeta Prawna reported Tuesday.

Over the next three years, Poland is set to spend approximately PLN 15 billion (USD 4.24 billion) on drones and counter-drone systems, including 10,000 Warmate loitering munitions and 1,700 FlyEye reconnaissance drones.Photo: PAP/Tytus Żmijewski

Although China formally blocked the export of drones and key parts to both countries in September 2024, the flow of technology has not ceased, the paper said—it has simply been rerouted through Poland. The shift coincides with rising domestic demand, as Poland’s military and uniformed services increasingly turn to Chinese-made components.

“We likely bought out the market,” said Deputy Defense Minister Cezary Tomczyk during a parliamentary defense committee session. “There were still funds for 2,000 more sets, but no more offers.”

According to the report, the Polish military purchased a significant share of FPV drones available on the market last year and plans to continue expanding its drone fleet.

Over the next three years, Poland is set to spend approximately PLN 15 billion (USD 4.24 billion) on drones and counter-drone systems, including 10,000 Warmate loitering munitions and 1,700 FlyEye reconnaissance drones.

While Chinese drones remain attractive for their price — reportedly four times cheaper than Western alternatives — experts quoted in the article believe Poland could reduce its dependence on Chinese supplies, provided the government offers steady, long-term orders to domestic producers.

Ukrainian drone production is expected to reach 8 million units annually by 2026, underscoring the scale of regional demand for unmanned systems amid the ongoing war.

(jh)

Source: PAP

Radio Poland