Tomczyk disclosed the development during an interview with Polish private broadcaster TVN24 on Monday, saying Washington had shifted its position after a period of skepticism.
"The Americans were initially skeptical about Poles being able to produce PAC-3 missiles for Patriots," he said.
"After our visit to the U.S., I think everything is open and we have received preliminary approval from the State Department to produce missiles for Patriot systems. They would be produced in the Polish defense industry. It is a matter of a consortium — we have such capabilities in Poland".
According to the defense industry portal Defence24, Washington had long been reluctant to share such unique production capabilities, but shifting circumstances appear to have changed its calculus. Current annual production of the PAC-3 MSE — the latest version of the missile — stands at around 700 units, with the United States aiming to raise that to 2,000 by the end of 2030. U.S. stockpiles have been depleted by the recent war with Iran, deliveries to Ukraine and purchases by allies including Poland, while American forces also seek to replenish and expand their own reserves — creating demand for a production partner.
Germany is also seeking to host production of the same missiles.
Poland already operates two Patriot batteries and is awaiting six more. With possible delays in deliveries of the newest missiles, the Polish military has been exploring alternatives. General Michał Marciniak, deputy head of the Armaments Agency, said mid-month that a contractor had already been selected in that regard.
Tomczyk also said the Americans had expressed strong interest in a scenario under which Poland would produce long-range munitions for HIMARS rocket systems and Hellfire missiles, used aboard Apache helicopters, among other platforms.
Poland has been pushing to localize production of defense equipment it purchases abroad, including components and servicing. A repair center for engines used in American Abrams tanks is set to be established in Dęblin.
(jh)
Source: RMF24