The Ministry of Defense of Poland has signed a contract to purchase multi-purpose American MQ-9B SkyGuardian drones.

Milmag reported on this.

It is reported that the contract was signed on December 12, and its total value is estimated at $310 million.

The newest drones are to replace the existing fleet of MQ-9A Reapers, which Poland has leased from the United States.

The lease agreement was signed on October 29, 2022, and its value was estimated at $70.6 million.

The manufacturer, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, is expected to complete the delivery of the drones by Q1 2027.

In January 2024, the deal was publicly reported when the president of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems announced during the UMEX 24 international defense exhibition in Abu Dhabi that the Polish government was close to signing a contract to purchase MQ-9B.

The Polish government made this decision after the MQ-9A drones started their operation.

MQ-9B SkyGuardian

The MQ-9B is an upgraded version of the MQ-9A, with a wingspan of 24 meters and an increased range and flight time. The drone can stay in the air for 40 hours.

Other features include a high-resolution EO/IR Full Motion Video sensor, an anti-icing system, and an automatic takeoff and landing system.

The system also includes an upgraded ground control station designed for a crew of four.

The strike version of the MQ-9 has weapon mounts and can be equipped with AGM-114 Hellfire air-to-ground anti-tank missiles, Mark 82 guided bombs, and other munitions.