Poland is developing a new, state-of-the-art counter-drone air defense system that is expected to become operational by the end of 2026, according to the head of the country’s Armaments Agency.
Armaments Agency chief Gen. Artur Kuptel told the media that the Polish Armed Forces plan to field more than a dozen batteries of the system, known as San, which is designed to counter a broad range of drone threats as well as selected manned aircraft. Initial deployments are expected to begin in 2026, with the final batteries entering service in 2027.
San will combine multiple layers of sensors and effectors to detect, identify, track and defeat aerial targets. Its kinetic component includes 30 mm artillery firing programmable “smart” ammunition that detonates at a precisely set point in the air, allowing shells to explode directly in front of or above a target rather than requiring a direct hit. Polish officials say this approach significantly improves effectiveness against small, fast-moving drones while keeping costs under control.
In addition to gun-based defenses, the system will incorporate interceptor drones and non-kinetic capabilities such as electronic jamming to disrupt or disable hostile drones. San batteries are also expected to employ low-cost Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) missiles, providing an additional option against unmanned aircraft and certain cruise missile threats.
The development comes as NATO countries accelerate investment in counter-UAS capabilities following lessons from the war in Ukraine, where drone warfare has evolved rapidly. As a frontline state on NATO’s eastern flank, Poland has prioritized strengthening its air and missile defenses to address both conventional and asymmetric threats.
Gen. Kuptel described San as Poland’s largest counter-drone program to date, but not the only one underway. He confirmed that additional counter-UAS acquisitions are being pursued, though details remain undisclosed.
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Post Image Credit: Poland’s Head of the Armaments Agency Brig. Gen. Artur Kuptel (Post Image Credit – PAP archive / Rafał Guz)
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