UK and Poland sign three-year pact to develop drone defence missiles
The UK and Poland have agreed a three-year defence pact to develop missiles and air defence technology aimed at countering Russian drones. The agreement also deepens cooperation across military fields as both countries seek to strengthen European security and deter Russian activity.
The plan includes closer cyber security work, more naval exercises in the Baltic Sea and sharing expertise on building frigates. The announcement comes amid concerns about Russian sabotage and drone incursions, and as Ukrainian defence firms warn that jet-powered Russian drones travelling at over 400mph are increasingly difficult to intercept.
In short
- UK and Poland sign a three-year defence pact.
- The countries will develop counter-drone missiles and air defences.
- Cooperation will also cover cyber security and Baltic naval drills.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters argue that joint UK-Polish development could help counter increasingly fast and difficult-to-intercept drones, strengthen deterrence and improve European security. Sharing expertise on missiles, cyber security and naval capability may also make both countries’ defences more effective and resilient.
The case against
Sceptics could argue that a new pact risks deepening military escalation with Russia and may prompt further countermeasures, while its cost and practical effectiveness remain uncertain. They might favour prioritising diplomacy, existing defences or other security needs, and seek clearer evidence that the proposed technology can reliably address the threat.
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “Britain signs landmark deal with Poland to develop new missiles to combat Russian drones”.