Czech Republic to Deploy Helicopters to Poland Amid Drone Threats
On September 11, 2025, the Czech Defense Minister Jana Cernochova announced that the Czech Republic will provide helicopter support to Poland to counter low-altitude drone threats, reports 24brussels.
In response to increasing drone activity over Polish territory, the Czech Ministry of Defense stated it is prepared to dispatch a unit equipped with three specialized Mi-171S helicopters for operations. This decision followed discussions between Cernochova and Polish Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz, in which Poland formally requested assistance.
The contingent will consist of no more than 150 soldiers, with the exact number determined by the current operational situation and logistical considerations. This deployment reflects the escalating tensions in the region following reported violations of Polish airspace.
Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala emphasized the readiness of the nation’s helicopters to help secure European airspace swiftly, claiming they could be operational within days. The urgency of this situation was underscored as the Polish air force reported successfully shooting down multiple drones amidst claims of a significant incursion of Russian drones, some allegedly posing a direct threat.
Warsaw has asserted that this incident marks the first recorded downing of Russian drones over NATO territory, a claim Russia has vigorously denied. Andrey Ordash, Russia’s Charge d’Affaires in Poland, contended that the drones involved were instead Ukrainian in origin.
The situation reflects the heightened security concerns in Eastern Europe, exacerbated by ongoing conflicts and military engagements near the region. Both the Czech Republic and Poland continue to strengthen their defense capabilities in light of these persistent aerial threats.
