Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, along with key defense officials, formalized offset agreements with Lockheed Martin for 96 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters in Łódź on March 23.
Poland Won’t Cancel Defense Contracts
Prime Minister Donald Tusk affirmed Poland will honor its defense contracts with allies, emphasizing a commitment to strong negotiation in the nation’s security interests.
Tusk referenced a previous cancellation of a Caracal helicopter deal, which resulted in an 80 million Euro penalty and significant delays, as a lesson learned.
“Let Those Who Wish Us Ill Fear the Polish Apache”
Premier Tusk stated, “Let those who wish us ill fear the Polish Apache,” underscoring the deterrent effect of the new helicopters.
Largest Contract in Polish History
Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz hailed the Apache deal, finalized August 13, 2024, as the largest contract in Polish history, enabling servicing capabilities at the Wojskowe Zakłady Lotnicze in Łódź.
He noted Poland will possess the second-largest fleet of Apache helicopters globally, trailing only the United States, and that this investment aligns with the expansion of Poland’s land forces—currently the third largest in NATO and second in Europe after Turkey.
First Helicopters Expected in 2028
According to Defense24.pl, the first new Apache helicopters are slated to arrive in Poland in 2028. Poland currently operates eight Apache helicopters for training purposes.
Tusk emphasized the collaboration with the US and other NATO allies, stating there is no conflict of interest and that the contract supports the security of the entire alliance.
