Gerbera Drones: Russia’s Low-Cost UAVs at Center of Poland Airspace Breach

A suspected Russian drone incursion into Poland on Wednesday featured Gerbera drones, according to a Polish army official, drawing attention to this low-cost, mass-produced UAV design as Moscow presses its drone war across borders, reports Reuters. The Gerbera is a plywood-and-foam drone assembled at Russia’s Yelabuga facility, designed to be cheap, expendable, and easily deployed in swarms. Its role in the Poland incident underscores how such basic platforms can complicate NATO air defense responses.

Inside the Gerbera Design

Ukrainian intelligence says the Gerbera spans 2.5 meters (8 feet), weighs up to 18 kilograms (40 pounds), and cruises at speeds of 160 kilometers per hour (99 mph) with a maximum range of 600 kilometers (373 miles). A small rear engine drives a wooden propeller, keeping costs down and production simple. Though inexpensive, the drone’s flexibility makes it valuable. Analysts say Gerberas are often used as decoys to distract defenses from more destructive Shahed drones. Other versions carry light warheads or reconnaissance gear, broadening the threat profile. “Gerberas are usually employed as part of a mix of systems,” said Fabian Hinz of the International Institute for Strategic Studies.

Supply Chain and Sanctions Gaps

According to Ukraine, Gerberas are assembled from kits supplied by Chinese manufacturer Skywalker Technology, though Beijing denies any military involvement. Ukrainian investigators have also found electronic components from U.S. and European firms inside the drones despite sanctions aimed at blocking dual-use technology exports.

Why NATO Is Alarmed

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said the drones were “clearly set on this course” into Poland and were “suitably armed,” dismissing any suggestion of a navigational mistake. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called the breach proof that Europe needs a joint air shield, warning that “only joint European forces can provide protection.”

NATO and Allied Responses

U.S. President Donald Trump reacted on social media with: “What’s with Russia violating Poland’s airspace with drones? Here we go!” His NATO ambassador, Matthew Whitaker, issued a firmer pledge: “We stand by our NATO Allies … and will defend every inch of NATO territory.”

Meanwhile, the UK unveiled plans to mass-produce Ukrainian-designed interceptor drones to help counter Russian UAV attacks. Defense Secretary John Healey condemned the “reckless” incursion and said the program will be launched at the Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) trade show in London.

DroneXL’s Take

The Gerbera shows how low-cost, modular drones are becoming central to Russia’s UAV strategy. While it may appear crude — plywood, foam, and a wooden propeller — its ability to stretch defenses, act as decoy, or even deliver small payloads makes it strategically disruptive. For drone professionals, the Gerbera highlights a trend: the future of aerial warfare is not just in advanced UAVs, but also in simple, swarming systems that overwhelm defenses. NATO’s challenge is figuring out how to defend against both ends of the spectrum.

What do you think: are cheap drones like the Gerbera the bigger long-term threat than high-end UAVs? Share your view in the comments below.