Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz emphasized that the American Apache helicopters will be an integral part of the integrated battlefield, working alongside Abrams tanks and F-35 fighters to enhance Poland's operational capabilities.
The Deputy Prime Minister also thanked the American side for their cooperation and highlighted previous offset agreements worth around one billion PLN (approximately 255 million USD), which included investments in Polish facilities.
He also noted that the helicopters will be stationed at bases in Inowrocław in north-central Poland, Świdnik in southeastern Poland, and Malbork in northern Poland.
Poland's Apache deal boosts defense and U.S. relations
According to U.S. Ambassador to Poland Mark Brzeziński, “The acquisition of 96 AH-64E Apache helicopters by Poland represents a significant investment in modernizing its defense capabilities. This is a clear indication of our long-term commitment and trust in Poland, which in turn shows that Poland trusts us as well.”
The value of the signed contract is approximately 10 billion USD, which contrasts with the earlier plans to purchase Caracals from France that were canceled in 2015.
Inowrocław, August 13, 2024. The AH-64E Apache attack helicopter was displayed at the contract signing ceremony for its purchase by the Polish Armed Forces. Produced by Boeing, the AH-64E Apache is the primary attack helicopter used by the U.S. Army (PAP/Tytus Żmijewski)
What do specialists think about the Apache helicopters?
Bartosz Głowacki, an expert from the military and aviation magazine "Raport," noted in an interview with Program 1 of Polish Radio that Polish that Apache helicopters will not be fully capable of controlling unmanned aerial vehicles, as the U.S. does not provide these capabilities to export buyers.
He also mentioned that the purchase includes not only the helicopters but also complete equipment and armament, including over 1,800 Hellfire missiles and 460 JAGM missiles.
Source: IAR/PR1/PAP/MON/US Embassy Warsaw
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