Poland is embarking on its biggest re-armament drive in 50 years in response to the growing threat posed by Russia, which has amassed tens of thousands of troops near its borders with Ukraine and NATO allies.
According to a report by Le Figaro1, Poland plans to create the largest land army in Europe, with 250,000 active soldiers and 50,000 reserve forces2. The country also intends to spend 4% of its GDP on defense, double the normal NATO target and making it the highest per capita defense expenditure in the alliance3.
As part of its modernization program, Poland has secured several weapons contracts with foreign suppliers, including tanks, self-propelled guns, missile launchers, helicopters, drones, submarines, and fighter jets. Some of the notable deals are:
Poland’s defense minister Mariusz Blaszczak said that these acquisitions are necessary to ensure Poland’s security and sovereignty in the face of Russian aggression. He also said that Poland is ready to defend itself and its allies if Russia invades Ukraine or any other NATO member state.
Poland has been one of the most vocal critics of Russia’s actions in Eastern Europe and has expressed its solidarity with Ukraine. It has also been one of the most active contributors to NATO missions and exercises in the region.
However, some analysts warn that Poland’s re-armament drive may not be enough to deter Russia and may even provoke a backlash from Moscow. They also caution that Poland may face challenges in integrating its diverse weapons systems and maintaining its high defense spending amid economic uncertainties.