Russia’s war in neighboring Ukraine has transformed the entirety of Europe. The Eastern European NATO members that are nearest to the fighting—and covertly involved in supporting Ukraine against Russia—are fast preparing for what they believe will be the inevitable next step by the Kremlin: an attack on NATO. The largest and most powerful nation in this category is Poland, and Warsaw’s leaders believe that such an attack will be directed against them—perhaps a reasonable assumption, given the venomous relationship between the two countries and their centuries of mutual hostility.
Since the start of the Ukraine War, Warsaw has striven to enhance its defense capabilities, to modernize its existing forces, and to invest in new capabilities that will give it parity with the Russians.
Poland Is Leading a Revolution in Satellite Technology
One such system that Poland is deeply committed to is in the strategic high ground of space. In 2023, the Polish government contracted the European aerospace firm Airbus to deliver two military reconnaissance satellites, which should be put into orbit by 2027. Toward the end of 2024, Warsaw added onto this order by purchasing four microsatellites built on the Polish firm Creotech’s HyperSat platform—for the additional cost of $134 million.
The Creotech microsatellites are a particularly deft acquisition by Warsaw. Poland is a middle power with a substantial, but limited, defense budget. Lacking the massive capacities of the United States, Russia, and China, medium-sized powers must depend more on cheaper, smaller satellites—microsatellites—to enhance their space warfare capabilities rather than waiting around to procure larger and more expensive systems.
Indeed, these four Creotech microsatellites are a perfect example of how a medium power can punch well above its weight in space. The systems are intended to be placed in low-Earth orbit (LEO), allowing for an unblinking, reliable view of all points on the Earth below. The satellites will further feature optical instruments capable of capturing and transmitting Earth imaging data in near-infrared and visible light bands.
Last year, Warsaw began operations of the newly-minted Geospatial Reconnaissance and Satellite Services Agency. This agency will, as its name suggests, control Poland’s small but growing satellite capability. Specifically, it will coordinate the use of these satellites for critical military missions directed primarily against the Russians.
Where Poland Goes, the Rest of NATO Might Follow
All these moves are key to making Poland’s military a more effective and lethal combat force against a Russia that is both more belligerent than ever and increasingly combat-effective on the modern battlefield.
With Ukraine’s military on the back foot, and the Trump administration uncertain about its commitment to Europe—leaving in doubt the stability and future of Europe’s current security architecture—Poland is smart to expand as many of its capabilities as possible.
Space is where the wars of tomorrow will be won. By having some advanced systems there, even if only for situational awareness and greater command-and-control purposes, Warsaw is giving its smaller force a greater chance to punch above their weight against Russia.
About the Author: Brandon J. Weichert
Brandon J. Weichert, a Senior National Security Editor at The National Interest as well as a contributor at Popular Mechanics, who consults regularly with various government institutions and private organizations on geopolitical issues. Weichert’s writings have appeared in multiple publications, including the Washington Times, National Review, The American Spectator, MSN, the Asia Times, and countless others. His books include Winning Space: How America Remains a Superpower, Biohacked: China’s Race to Control Life, and The Shadow War: Iran’s Quest for Supremacy. His newest book, A Disaster of Our Own Making: How the West Lost Ukraine is available for purchase wherever books are sold. He can be followed via Twitter @WeTheBrandon.
Image: Shutterstock / Andrei Armiagov.
