Poland Secures $10 Billion Deal for US Apache Attack Helicopters

Poland has signed a landmark $10 billion deal to purchase 96 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters from US manufacturer Boeing.

This pivotal acquisition marks a major upgrade in Poland's military capabilities and is part of a broader effort to modernize its armed forces, especially in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

"This is the landmark purchase by Poland for its armed forces of... 96 state-of-the-art AH-64E Apache attack helicopters," stated Defence Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz during a press conference at the Inowroclaw air base, where the helicopters will be stationed.

He emphasized that this deal represents a milestone in the transformation and equipping of the Polish army.

The agreement includes not only the helicopters but also maintenance equipment, technical and training support, flight simulators, and spare parts.

Deputy Defence Minister Pawel Bejda highlighted the comprehensive nature of the deal, noting, "Offset, purchase, leasing, pilot training, technology, armament — it was all negotiated together. It's a historic day for helicopter aviation."

The first batch of these advanced helicopters is expected to be delivered in 2028, with some Polish pilots already undergoing training on the US-made aircraft. The Apaches are set to replace the outdated Russian Mi-24 helicopters currently in use.

This deal is the latest in a series of contracts between Poland and the United States aimed at bolstering Poland's defense capabilities. Recently, Poland announced agreements to purchase hundreds of AIM-120C AMRAAM air-to-air missiles and to build 48 launchers for the US-designed Patriot air defense systems.

Poland's defense spending has surged to over four percent of its annual economic output, double NATO's target of two percent. This increase shows Poland's commitment to strengthening its military in response to regional threats, particularly from Russia.

The sale of the Apache helicopters was approved last year by the US State Department and Congress, further solidifying the defense relationship between the two nations.

Kosiniak-Kamysz pointed out that the Apaches are designed to work in conjunction with the Abrams tanks, another recent acquisition by Poland.

In 2022, Poland purchased 250 Abrams tanks in the modern M1A2 variant, making it the first country outside the United States to operate these tanks. "For the Abrams, the Apache is an essential element," he said.

Deputy Defence Minister Bejda concluded by emphasizing the strategic importance of the deal: "These $10 billion are the insurance of our country, the insurance of our freedom," adding that the Apaches would play a crucial role in deterring potential aggressors.