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Poland signs USD 5 bn defense deal for missiles and launchers

08.11.2023 13:00
Poland's Ministry of Defense says it has finalized a USD 5 billion contract with European defense firm MBDA to equip the Polish military with 1,000 advanced CAMM-ER missiles and more than 100 launching systems.
The Mała Narew short-range air defence system.
The Mała Narew short-range air defence system.Photo: Twitter/@MON_GOV_PL

The deal is part of the country's Narew program, a major modernization initiative aiming to upgrade Poland's air defense capabilities.

The new system is designed to engage and neutralize various airborne threats in a simultaneous operation, enhancing Poland's military response capacity in the wake of Russia's invasion of neighbouring Ukraine.

Poland’s Defense Minister Mariusz Błaszczak announced the deal's completion, highlighting its importance to his country's armed forces.

"The contract surpasses GBP 4 billion, translating to approximately PLN 20 billion, and it marks another significant phase in the Narew program," Błaszczak stated on the X platform.

The British government has also acknowledged the signing, with Defense Secretary Grant Shapps emphasizing the contract's role in bolstering European security amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

"This is another crucial step forward for our historic defence ties with Poland, supplying next generation air defence capabilities to act as a clear deterrent to our adversaries," Shapps commented.

The agreement includes the transfer of technology to Poland. This will allow for the domestic production of missiles and launchers, further solidifying the country’s defense industry.

(jh/gs)

Source: Reuters, PAP