The Polish government is set to finalize a €44 billion agreement under the EU’s SAFE program this Friday, earmarked for bolstering national defense.
EU Funds Allocated to Poland
The Polish government will finalize an agreement within the EU’s SAFE program this Friday, announced Prime Minister Donald Tusk on Monday. Poland is set to receive €43.7 billion out of a total €150 billion EU fund primarily intended for the rearmament of member states.
Announcement During European Political Community Summit
The Prime Minister made the announcement during a press conference at the 8th summit of the European Political Community in Yerevan, Armenia.
SAFE Program Details
The SAFE program will provide Poland with €44 billion from the European Union.
Commitment to Strengthening Polish Security
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz affirmed his commitment to strengthening Poland’s security and modernizing its armed forces, stating the final agreement for the SAFE program will be signed this Friday. He also stated those attempting to obstruct Polish access to European funds for its defense industry will fail.
Agreement Signing Details
Government Plenipotentiary for SAFE, Magdalena Sobkowiak-Czarnecka, announced on Saturday that the agreement would be signed within the next few dozen hours. The signing will involve the Minister of Finance Andrzej Domański, and representatives from the Bank Gospodarstwa Krajowego, alongside the Minister of National Defence.
Fund Allocation and Modernization Priorities
According to EU regulations, member states can independently order military equipment under SAFE until the end of May. After this deadline, partnerships will be required for each purchase. This timeline is crucial for Poland, as the government plans most acquisitions through the Polish defense industry. Funds will support projects like the Tarcza Wschód program, anti-drone systems, air defense, artillery, and military transport infrastructure.
Industrial Focus and Funding Distribution
The EU’s SAFE program offers €150 billion in support, including low-interest loans, primarily for military equipment purchases, especially those produced in Europe. The Polish government intends for 89% of the funds to benefit Polish industry and the economy.
Presidential Veto and Government Response
In mid-March, President Karol Nawrocki vetoed the law implementing SAFE, which proposed a special fund for EU resources. In response, the government adopted a resolution on the Polish Armaments Program, authorizing the Minister of National Defence, Minister of Finance, and Minister of Economy to sign the agreement and related documents. The Bank Gospodarstwa Krajowego will secure the loan for the Armed Forces Support Fund (FWSZ), with repayment sourced from funds not included in the minimum defense spending limit.