Defense Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz said Poland will receive four of the aircraft under the arrangement, which will be financed through the European Union's SAFE rearmament loan program. Spain's government said the seven-year deal also includes the logistical support needed to bring the planes into service.
"This is also an important decision regarding NATO security and Poland's security", Kosiniak-Kamysz wrote on social media, describing the aircraft as essential for the Polish Air Force as it works to bring newly acquired F-35 fighter jets into service.
The exact aircraft variant has not been officially confirmed, but Spanish media reported it is likely to be the newest Airbus A330 MRTT Plus, built on the A330neo passenger jet platform. The model is designed to burn up to 8% less fuel than the current version, can refuel other aircraft mid-air and can carry as many as 300 troops.
Plans for the purchase emerged in June, when Kosiniak-Kamysz met his Spanish counterpart, Margarita Robles, and announced Poland's intent to acquire the aircraft. Spanish media reported that Madrid also offered to move up delivery of one aircraft for Poland, citing more urgent needs within its armed forces.
The deal draws on SAFE, an EUR 150 billion EU loan mechanism supporting member states' rearmament efforts. Poland is the program's top beneficiary, expected to receive EUR 43.7 billion in low-interest loans for defense purchases that prioritize European manufacturers.
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Source: Polish Radio