Poland develops interceptor drone to counter enemy UAVs

Poland has begun work on developing an interceptor drone designed to destroy enemy unmanned aerial vehicles in flight, according to a report by Polish media.

The project is being carried out by a consortium comprising MBF Group, Squadron Sp., and Polskie Lobby Przemysłowe. The drone, named IRYDA+, is expected to remain airborne for up to 45 minutes and engage hostile UAVs at distances of up to 30 kilometres.

According to the report, the system will have a cruising speed of 180–200 km/h and will use a 7.62 mm machine gun to neutralise targets.

If the project is successfully completed, IRYDA+ will be integrated into the SAN multi-layered air defence system being developed to protect Poland’s eastern border.

According to the Ministry of National Defence of Poland, the SAN system will consist of 18 batteries, each made up of four platoons, including three fire platoons and one support platoon. The fire units are expected to be equipped with domestically produced 30 mm and 35 mm anti-aircraft guns, 12.7 mm multi-barrel machine guns, US-made APKWS multi-purpose missiles, loitering munitions, radar systems, and electronic warfare capabilities.

The defence ministry has stated that the SAN system is scheduled to be adopted into service by the end of 2027.

By Tamilla Hasanova