Poland will begin constructing the first elements of its enhanced defense lines along the borders with Russia and Belarus by the end of 2024. This project, driven by security concerns following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, involves a 10 billion zloty ($2.6 billion) investment in fortifications, surveillance, and anti-drone systems by 2028. Initial tests of the “East Shield” elements will be conducted within weeks, with cooperation from Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, and allied forces from the UK and the US. Poland’s defense spending is set to rise to 4.2% of GDP in 2024 and 4.7% in 2025. Defense Minister Kosiniak-Kamysz expressed concerns that escalating conflict in the Middle East may shift global focus away from Ukraine.
Related Posts
First Polish F-35s depart Lockheed factory for pilot training work in Arkansas
- Veiko Lukmann
- 23/01/2025
- 0
Poland’s first two Lockheed Martin F-35As have departed Fort Worth, Texas, to begin pilot training at Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Arkansas. This milestone marks Poland’s progress toward fielding a modern fighter force, with plans to operate 32 F-35As by 2030. Brigadier General Chad Bridges emphasized the significance of this event for Arkansas, the U.S., and its allies. The Ebbing base is expanding its capacity for F-35 Foreign Military Sales pilot training, complementing the current program at Hill Air Force Base in Utah. This development underscores the strengthening of Poland’s defense capabilities and its collaboration with the U.S. in […]
Norway to send F-35 fighter jets, air defence systems to Poland
- Veiko Lukmann
- 03/12/2024
- 0
Norway’s defense ministry announced plans to deploy F-35 fighter jets and NASAMS air defense systems to Poland’s Rzeszow airport, a key logistics hub for military aid to Ukraine. Starting in early December, Norway will also send around 100 soldiers to safeguard the airspace above the airport. Defence Minister Bjoern Arild Gram emphasized Poland’s critical role in supporting Ukraine, ensuring aid reaches its destination. This deployment underscores Norway’s commitment to bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities amid ongoing conflict. The initiative highlights international collaboration to maintain the flow of military support to Ukraine. Original news
Poland Achieves Initial Operational Capability for Wisła Air Defense System
- Veiko Lukmann
- 23/12/2024
- 0
Poland’s Ministry of National Defense announced Initial Operational Capability (IOC) for the first battery of the Wisła medium-range air defense program on December 18. The system relies on Northrop Grumman’s Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS), chosen in 2018 as part of Poland’s military modernization efforts. A second battery is expected to reach IOC by the end of 2024, further enhancing Poland’s air defense capabilities. In February, the U.S. and Polish governments signed an agreement to extend the use of IBCS to Poland’s Narew short-range air defense program. These advancements mark significant progress in Poland’s efforts to strengthen its national and […]