Highlighting the importance of the visit, Duda expressed enthusiasm for the ongoing purchase of 96 Apache helicopters from the United States, intended to replace older, Soviet-era helicopters, most of which have been donated to Ukraine.
Duda said this acquisition was an important moment in the process of enhancing Poland's military capabilities with some of the world's best attack helicopters.
This visit marked the conclusion of Duda's tour in the United States, preceding his scheduled meeting with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg in Brussels on Thursday.
In addition to military modernization, Duda's trip underscored what officials say is strategic military cooperation between Poland and the United States, particularly through NATO.
At Fort Stewart, the Polish president took the opportunity to thank American soldiers for their partnership and vigilance in securing Poland's safety.
Fort Stewart, named after Gen. Daniel Stewart, a hero of the American War of Independence, is the largest military base east of the Mississippi River.
It houses the 3rd Infantry Division of the US Army, ready for deployment. Some 4,500 soldiers from the headquarters of the 3rd Infantry Division, the 3rd Division's Artillery Brigade, Support Brigade, and the 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team are deployed across Europe, including Poland. Their mission is to support NATO allies and train with the host countries' forces to enhance readiness and interoperability.
The US State Department has announced approvals for significant arms sales to Poland, including 821 AGM-158B JASSM long-range missiles, 745 AIM-120C-8 medium-range air-to-air missiles, and 232 AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II short-range tactical missiles.
US President Joe Biden's administration has offered Poland a USD 2 billion loan for US arms purchases, which includes the sale of the Apache helicopters.
Polish president tours Vogtle nuclear power plant in Georgia
Duda's US visit highlighted Poland's commitment to energy security and adherence to EU climate policies through the development of nuclear energy.
He visited the Vogtle nuclear power plant in Georgia, where he discussed "the safe and modern AP1000 reactors by Westinghouse," which officials say will soon be installed in Poland.
The planned project is part of Poland's broader strategy to establish a nuclear power sector, with the first Polish nuclear power plant using US technology expected to commence in Choczewo in the north of the country by 2033, and a second one in collaboration with the South Korean corporation KHNP by 2035.
(rt/gs)
Source: IAR, PAP