Poland Boosts Defense with $9 Billion Apache Helicopters, AMRAAM Missiles, and Patriot Launchers in Major U.S. Deal
August 11, 2024Poland's military modernization efforts have gained momentum in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Next week, Warsaw is expected to finalize a significant agreement with the United States to purchase 96 AH-64E Apache combat helicopters, valued at over €9 billion, aimed at replacing outdated Soviet-era Mi-24 helicopters.
As part of this deal, Poland has also secured industrial compensation agreements with Boeing and General Electric, totaling around €215 million, focusing on skills transfer for helicopter maintenance to Polish factories.
In addition to the Apache helicopters, Poland has signed a contract with the U.S. for several hundred AIM-120C AMRAAM air-to-air missiles, valued at $855 million, which will be integrated into the Polish Air Force's F-16 fighter jets.
The delivery of these missiles is scheduled between 2029 and 2033, enhancing the capabilities of Poland's multifunctional F-16s.
Poland is also planning to sign a contract for the delivery of 48 American Patriot missile launchers, further bolstering its defense capabilities.
This year, Poland is dedicating over 4% of its GDP, approximately €30 billion, to defense, significantly exceeding NATO's recommended 2% guideline.
The country is actively acquiring military equipment primarily from the United States and South Korea, as part of its comprehensive defense strategy.
Since the onset of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Western allies have provided significant financial and military support to Ukraine.
The ongoing Russian military offensive against Ukraine, which began on February 24, 2022, has created the most severe security crisis in Europe since World War II.
In response to the conflict, Western allies have imposed sanctions on key sectors of the Russian economy to undermine Moscow's ability to finance its military operations.
Summary based on 2 sources