This paper presents an investigation of the drilling performance of glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) composite based on the thrust force, temperature, and delamination factor (at entry and exit of the hole). High-speed steel (HSS), solid carbide (SC), and solid carbide Balinit® Helica coated (SCBH) twist tools were used for the drilling process. Other drilling parameters were high spindle speeds (12,000, 15,000, and 18,000 rpm), feed rate (300, 500, and 700 mm/min), and laminate thickness (3, 5, and 7 mm). ANOVA and response surface methodology were developed to examine the drilling process based on input and output parameters. Results showed that delamination was observed in the form of matrix debonding, uncut fibers, and fiber pull-out. The best drilling performance was achieved by the SC and SCBH tool at a low feed rate (300 rpm) and high speed (18,000 rpm), and high laminate thickness (7 mm). © The Author(s) 2022.