The agreement, valued at USD 745 million, was signed in Warsaw on Tuesday by Polish Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz.
The contract furthers Poland’s commitment to strengthening its air defense capabilities amid growing security concerns in the face of continually bellicose Russia.
The new missiles will improve Poland’s ability to counter enemy air defenses, enhancing both its national security and its role within NATO.
The contract, concluded between Poland’s Armament Agency and the U.S. government, will provide the Polish Air Force with more than 200 of these advanced missiles, which will be integrated into Poland’s fleet of F-35 fighter jets.
Deliveries are scheduled between 2029 and 2035.
Kosiniak-Kamysz described the deal as a major step forward in strengthening Poland’s air force.
"This purchase allows us to fully use the capabilities of our pilots and F-35 aircraft," he said.
He asserted that the agreement reinforces the Polish-American alliance, particularly at a time of political transition in Washington.
He declared that Poland remains a committed and reliable member of both NATO and the European Union.
The AGM-88G AARGM-ER (Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile – Extended Range) is a U.S.-made missile designed to neutralize enemy air defense systems by homing in on electromagnetic emissions from radar installations.
The missiles will enhance Poland’s ability to conduct air operations while minimizing risks to its own aircraft.
According to the Ministry of Defense, Poland’s F-35 jets will be capable of striking enemy defenses while staying beyond their range.
While the new AGM-88G missiles are designed for the F-35, future integration with Poland’s existing F-16 fleet is also being considered.
Gen. Ireneusz Nowak, Inspector of the Air Force at the General Command of the Polish Armed Forces, also spoke at the signing ceremony.
He told reporters that Poland is joining an elite group of countries equipped with this advanced technology.
"Only the United States, the Netherlands, Finland, Australia, and now Poland have these missiles," he said. "Once again, Poland is taking the lead in adopting modern weaponry, strengthening its position in Central and Eastern Europe and within NATO."
The purchase follows an earlier U.S. government approval in April last year, which allowed Poland to acquire up to 360 such missiles, along with related equipment, for a total potential cost of USD 1.275 billion.
While Poland ultimately decided to purchase fewer missiles in this initial order, additional acquisitions remain possible in the future.
Poland is in the process of modernizing its air force with advanced equipment.
The first of its 32 ordered F-35 fighter jets has already rolled off the production line in Texas and is expected to be delivered to Polish pilots later this year.
(rt/gs)
Source: IAR, PAP