Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz and Microsoft Poland’s security strategy director Krzysztof Malesa signed the agreement on Monday.
The ceremony was attended by Microsoft Vice Chairman Brad Smith, who earlier met with Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
During that meeting, the company announced a USD 700 million investment by 2026 to expand its computing power in Poland and confirmed a previously announced PLN 2.8 billion data center project in the central Mazovia region.
Kosiniak-Kamysz described the cybersecurity deal as a strategic partnership, emphasizing its importance for national security.
Smith echoed this sentiment, stating that the agreement is crucial for the future, as staying at the forefront of technological advancements is essential for security.
Smith also spoke at length about Poland’s role in aiding Ukraine. He acknowledged Microsoft’s efforts in supporting Ukraine but said they were minimal compared to what Poland has done.
He thanked the country for its commitment, saying that these efforts have been essential in "defending the free world."
The agreement covers several key areas, including the implementation of innovative solutions in the Polish military, improved responses to cyber threats, and joint research initiatives.
The defense ministry and Microsoft had previously begun discussions on expanding their collaboration, particularly in emerging defense technologies such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence and quantum computing.
Smith confirmed that under the agreement, Poland’s armed forces will gain artificial intelligence capabilities.
"Even more important," he added, "is the focus on leveraging breakthrough technologies to strengthen defense."
Kosiniak-Kamysz said that modern conflicts were won not only with traditional military strength but also with secure digital infrastructure.
"Cyberwarfare is already happening," he said. "We either respond to defend our values or we passively watch as they are eroded."
He highlighted Microsoft’s long-standing presence in Poland and noted Poland’s rapid adoption of new technologies, calling it one of the fastest in the world.
Deputy Defense Minister Cezary Tomczyk reinforced this point, saying that cybersecurity is now as critical as conventional military capabilities.
He said that Poland is among the three most frequently targeted countries in the world.
"We know exactly who is attacking us," Tomczyk said. "These are forces linked to Russia, or directly Russian entities. We are paying this price for supporting Ukraine."
(rt/gs)
Source: IAR, PAP