Poland will receive nearly EUR 44 billion from the EUR 150 billion European fund – almost one-third of the total – in the form of low-interest loans on preferential terms.
The European Commission gave its green light two weeks ago.
Once all procedures are completed, Poland will sign a loan agreement next month and receive a 15 percent advance payment of EUR 6.3 billion by late March or early April.
Poland's plan includes over 130 projects, among them the Eastern Shield border defence system, drones, anti-drone systems, multi-calibre ammunition production, anti-aircraft missile systems and howitzers.
The package also covers cybersecurity initiatives and critical infrastructure protection.
More than 80 percent of the invested funds will remain in Poland, supporting the development of its domestic defence industry.
Warsaw has also negotiated an exemption allowing it to finance already-started national projects in the first year, despite the fund's requirement for schemes to involve at least two countries.
SAFE was established in 2025 to help EU countries strengthen their defence capabilities amid growing threats from Russia and uncertainty over the future level of US engagement in Europe.
The programme also aims to reduce reliance on US-made weapons and boost Europe’s defence industries.
(ał)
Source: IAR