INVISIBLE FRONTLINES: HYBRID WARFARE AND CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE IN POLAND. ANALYSIS OF SELECTED THREATS AFTER 2021

Abstract

The article aims to analyse the evolution of hybrid threats targeting Poland between 2021 and 2026, with particular emphasis on cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, sabotage of railway infrastructure, and the use of unmanned aerial systems. The analysis is situated within the broader context of the Russian-Ukrainian war, which has significantly transformed the security environment of NATO’s eastern flank. A qualitative case study methodology is applied, drawing on reports from national and international security institutions, academic literature and expert analyses. The findings indicate that Poland, due to its strategic geographic location and critical logistical role in supporting Ukraine, has become a primary target of Russian hybrid activities. The analysis highlights the growing scale and complexity of hybrid threats, including cyber operations, sabotage incidents, and drone-related violations. At the same time, these developments have accelerated the strengthening of Poland’s capabilities in cybersecurity, critical infrastructure protection and counter-drone defence. The study concludes that enhancing national resilience requires improved interagency cooperation, integrated early-warning systems and adaptive response mechanisms capable of addressing the evolving nature of contemporary hybrid threats.