The deal, valued at USD 310 million, includes the delivery of an unspecified number of MQ-9B SkyGuardian unmanned aerial vehicles along with comprehensive support services. While Poland’s Ministry of Defence has not disclosed the precise number of drones to be delivered, an official statement from the defence procurement agency mentions the agreement involves “a few” units.
Unofficial sources suggest the deal covers the delivery of three MQ-9B SkyGuardian drones.
According to the defence procurement agency, the drones are expected to be delivered to the Polish Armed Forces by the first quarter of 2027.
In a statement, the agency explained the capabilities of the MQ-9B SkyGuardian systems: “The MQ-9B unmanned aerial systems will enable the acquisition of reconnaissance data in the field of imagery intelligence (IMINT) using electro-optical systems and SAR radar, as well as in the field of signals intelligence (SIGINT). Additionally, they can target ground and naval objectives from the air using a range of airborne munitions, such as guided missiles and bombs.”
Currently, the Polish Air Force operates MQ-9A Reaper drones under a leasing agreement signed in October 2022. However, according to Poland’s Ministry of Defence, once the newly ordered MQ-9B SkyGuardian drones are delivered, the operation of the leased systems will cease.
