The delivery of the eight older-model Apaches marks the start of a so-called bridging solution ahead of Poland’s acquisition of 96 new AH-64E helicopters, scheduled for delivery beginning in 2028.
The goal is to ensure that Poland has sufficient trained personnel ready to operate and maintain the aircraft once the main order arrives.
At a ceremony on Tuesday at the 56th Air Base in Latkowo, Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz stressed the urgent need for trained pilots and ground crews to support the upcoming Apache fleet.
He noted that the helicopters would be used to engage both ground and airborne targets, including drones.
"We decided to purchase 96 Apaches because Poland is a frontline state, facing a serious threat from the east,” said Kosiniak-Kamysz, adding that the decision was driven by the need for rapid and credible deterrence.
He acknowledged concerns about the scale of the purchase, which will make Poland the second-largest Apache operator in the world, after the United States.
But he argued that the AH-64E variant Poland has ordered is one of the most advanced, equipped with state-of-the-art surveillance detection, and battlefield communication systems.
The minister also pointed to real-world examples, noting that Israel currently uses Apache helicopters to counter drone attacks from Iran.
Kosiniak-Kamysz confirmed that 20 Polish pilots and 22 ground crew members had already completed training in the United States.
Under the leasing agreement, American instructors will remain in Poland through 2029 to oversee continued pilot training.
While training in the United States focuses on flight operation, Polish-based instruction will cover tactics and battlefield deployment.
The Apache programme is part of Poland’s broader efforts to modernize its military and reinforce its NATO commitments in the face of growing regional threats.
(rt/gs)
Source: IAR, PAP