Poland as a centre for modern solutions
Polish defence technology is playing an increasingly important role in NATO’s security architecture. With drones becoming one of the key tools in modern conflicts – both in reconnaissance and in attacks on infrastructure – there is a growing demand for effective countermeasures. Thanks to the dynamic development of high-tech start-ups, Poland is strengthening its position as a supplier of innovative solutions in this area.
APS – Polish leader in anti-drone systems
APS (Advanced Protection Systems) from Gdynia, founded by Dr Maciej Klemm and Dr Radosław Piesiewicz, specialises in anti-drone systems, which are already in use in many European countries, as well as in selected markets in the Middle East and Asia. Users include:
- the Ukrainian and Lithuanian armies,
- the Polish Border Guard,
- airport operators in Warsaw, Gdynia and Stavanger, Norway,
- telecommunications operators in the Middle East,
- security services in selected countries in the Gulf region
The SKYctrl system enables real-time detection, identification and neutralisation of drones, and thanks to artificial intelligence algorithms, it can distinguish between birds and unmanned aerial vehicles, for example. The solutions are available in mobile and stationary versions, which allows them to be used by both the military and the civilian sector.
Partnerships and international expansion
APS is consistently developing its network of strategic partnerships. In 2023, the company entered into an agreement with the Polish Defence Holding, whose goal is to provide integrated anti-drone systems for Polish public institutions and state-owned companies. In July of the same year, Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, a Norwegian defence company responsible, among other things, for weapon systems for Abrams tanks, joined the partnership. The goal is to create a multi-layered anti-drone defence system for NATO’s eastern flank.
Dual-use technologies – a growing market
APS systems are dual-use technologies, which means that they are used in the military sector, but also in critical infrastructure and civil industry. According to market analyses, the global market for anti-drone systems is currently worth approximately USD 1.5-2.5 billion, and by 2030 its value may range from USD 8 to over USD 20 million. Poland, through the development of companies such as APS, has the opportunity to play a significant role in this market, attracting the attention of strategic and institutional investors.
Polish defence technology – a partner in building security and innovation
The development of companies such as APS proves that Poland has a strong scientific and engineering base capable of creating technologies of global significance. It also confirms that the country is an attractive place to invest – not only in traditional sectors of the economy, but also in modern technological solutions.
Conclusions for investors
Polish defence technology is a sector that combines innovation, practical application and potential for global expansion. For investors, this means access to projects that:
- generate economic value,
- have real applications in defence and business,
- are in line with NATO and EU security priorities.
Poland is thus becoming not only a safe place to invest capital, but also a partner in building solutions for the future.
