US Grants Poland $2 Billion Credit for Military Modernization

The United States Department of State has announced the allocation of a $2 billion credit to Poland for the enhancement of its defense capabilities under the Foreign Military Financing (FMF) program, as reported by PAP.

In the statement released by the Department of State, it underscores Poland's commitment as a staunch ally of the United States, with the security of the country holding significant importance for the overall defense of NATO's eastern flank.

"Furthermore, in addition to playing a pivotal supporting role in providing international assistance to neighboring Ukraine, Poland has demonstrated unwavering dedication to strengthening regional security through substantial investments in defense expenditures," American diplomats noted.

According to the Department of State, Poland continues to showcase its aspiration to be a leading member of NATO, fulfilling its commitments to defense investments as agreed upon at the 2014 NATO Summit in Wales.

The statement highlights Poland's active commitment to bolstering regional security by allocating substantial resources. It also emphasizes the importance of Poland's efforts to modernize its armed forces, including transitioning from Soviet-era military equipment to Western technology.

"Poland plans a significant expansion of its armed forces. It has replaced Russian-origin military equipment with an ambitious multi-billion-dollar defense modernization program; entered into the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the United States; hosts allied and American forces, including a U.S.-led NATO battle group and the U.S. V Corps headquarters; and actively participates in NATO missions throughout the region," Washington officials noted.

The Department of State added that the U.S. government is providing up to $60 million within this credit to expedite the modernization of Poland's defense by supporting urgent purchases of defense goods and services from the United States.

"Direct FMF credits are a security cooperation tool designed for some of our most important security partners," concluded the American side.

Earlier, the Minister of Defense of Poland, Mariusz Błaszczak, announced the signing of a framework agreement for the supply of 486 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) as part of the HOMAR-A program for the Polish armed forces.