TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Poland has emerged as Taiwan’s largest overseas buyer of drones this year, accounting for nearly 60% of exports, according to a China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe report.

The analysis said Poland’s purchases reflect a recalibration of Warsaw’s defense strategy amid Russia’s war in Ukraine, rising European military demand, and growing unease over China’s technology, per CNA.

Unmanned systems have become essential for surveillance, reconnaissance, and battlefield support, particularly along NATO’s eastern flank. Poland has prioritized suppliers capable of rapid, large-scale delivery without major political complications.

Taiwanese drones have met those requirements, gaining a reputation for reliability and affordability. Their use by Ukrainian forces has further bolstered confidence among European militaries monitoring the conflict.

The report said Poland’s choices are largely pragmatic. While still reliant on Chinese supply chains for many goods, fears of export restrictions or political leverage have pushed Warsaw to diversify. Taiwan provides a practical alternative: dependable products that are politically less sensitive and available quickly.

Poland is not alone. Across Central and Eastern Europe, countries including Lithuania and the Czech Republic are limiting Chinese technology in critical sectors amid shifting political and security priorities.

For Taiwan, supplying drones to a key NATO member enhances the visibility of its defense industry and demonstrates its ability to contribute to European security in concrete ways, the report said.

However, it cautioned that Taipei must manage these ties carefully. Expanded defense cooperation could draw scrutiny from Beijing, which is monitoring Poland’s procurement choices despite not issuing any official response.