After recent russian drone attack, Poland has begun reassessing the cost-effectiveness of its air defense measures. The interception of drones with the AIM-9X and AIM-120 air-to-air missiles by NATO aircraft sparked public concern, as each missile costs from half a million to several million dollars, while the drones themselves are worth only a few thousand. The debate highlights the urgent need for more affordable countermeasures, not only for Poland but for NATO as a whole.
According to an analysis published by Defense24, the issue is not that the chosen weapons were ineffective, but that they reflect a reliance on existing NATO arsenals rather than specially tailored anti-drone systems. With the scale of russia's use of cheap drones, the Alliance risks spending unsustainable sums if it continues this approach.
Read more: Why the MWS120 Ragnarok Mortar on the ACSV G5 Was Spotted at the DSEI 2025 Exhibition with Norwegian, Dutch, and Ukrainian Flags
Several lower-cost alternatives are already being explored. Among them are upgraded versions of the Soviet-era ZU-23-2 anti-aircraft guns, enhanced with MANPADS. However, these platforms suffer from limited accuracy, particularly at night. Poland's domestic SA-35 system offers a more advanced solution, featuring a larger caliber gun, an electro-optical targeting system, and even radar guidance. This significantly improves performance against small, fast-moving drones. Local defense companies are also developing airburst munitions designed specifically for such threats.
Beyond traditional guns, drone-on-drone warfare is emerging as one of the most promising paths. Ukraine has pioneered the use of interceptor UAVs against the Shahed-136 and similar drones, proving their viability in combat. These platforms are cheaper, agile, and can be fielded in larger numbers compared to missiles. Polish industry has showcased prototypes such as the ASSASIN interceptor, part of the MADDOS system by AP-FLYER. With an operational range of 8 kilometers, day-night optics, a launch container, and automated guidance, the 5.5 kg drone could represent a practical option for layered defense.
In addition to kamikaze interceptors, Polish developers are testing reusable UAVs capable of deploying nets or employing directed electronic warfare to disable hostile drones. However, doubts remain about their effectiveness against larger and faster platforms such as the Shahed drones. The technology is promising but still requires real-world validation.
Ukrainian experience is already shaping Polish discussions. Projects like Ptaki Dronarium, a joint Ukrainian-Polish initiative, aim to exchange operational lessons and integrate proven counter-UAV tactics into Poland's defense posture. With Ukraine serving as the world's testing ground for drone warfare, its expertise is becoming increasingly valuable to NATO partners.
The key challenge, however, is not technological but financial. Despite massive credit lines for weapons procurement, Poland has so far invested relatively little in counter-drone defenses. This underinvestment is striking, given that local companies have already developed viable solutions. Without greater government commitment and funding, Poland risks relying on costly stopgap measures while more affordable and scalable systems remain underutilized.
Ultimately, the debate over cost versus effectiveness is pushing NATO allies to rethink air defense in the drone era. For Poland, adopting cheaper and smarter counter-drone systems will be essential not only to protect its skies but also to ensure the sustainability of its defense spending.
Read more: Ukrainian Mi-8 Crew Shoots Down russian Shahed-136 Drone with Onboard Machine Gun (Video)
