Poland’s WB Group has introduced a prototype of a surface naval drone, closely resembling designs used by Ukraine, according to a report by Defence24.
The new drone was unveiled at the training grounds of the 1st Warsaw Armored Brigade in Wesoła, near Warsaw. The event featured around 40 companies specializing in unmanned technologies.
Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz emphasized the broader strategy behind the development. “This is part of our grand strategy: to build an army of hundreds of thousands of drones and the capacity to produce millions,” he said. “Drones evolve quickly, with companies constantly releasing new versions. You cannot simply stockpile them in reserve.”
The prototype is similar in size to Ukrainian models. It is equipped with a water-jet engine, remote control features, and modern infrared cameras. The combat payload is expected to be placed in the front section of the drone.
Ukrainian forces have already advanced naval drone technology by adding missile launchers and machine gun turrets to some of their models.
WB Group, one of Poland’s leading defense manufacturers, is already known for producing the FLYEYE reconnaissance drone.
Experts suggest that Poland could successfully deploy naval drones in the shallow waters of the Baltic Sea.
Naval drones are typically operated individually or in swarms, with nighttime missions offering the best effectiveness. Their small size, low heat signatures, and minimal radar profiles make them difficult for enemy forces to detect.
Aerial surveillance, particularly using helicopters, remains the most reliable way to spot these drones. In Ukraine, drones have even been equipped with anti-aircraft missiles to counter helicopter threats.
