By engaging in a Foreign Military Sales agreement, Poland is solidifying its position as a more influential participant in Nato and European military operations. Source: Boeing

Poland has finalised a Foreign Military Sales Letter of Offer and Acceptance with Boeing to procure 96 AH-64E Apache combat helicopters.

This deal, part of the Polish KRUK Attack Helicopter programme and valued at $12bn (46.92bn zlotys), is the largest FMS order in Boeing’s Vertical Lift division’s history and establishes Poland as the largest operator of Apache helicopters outside the United States.

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Enhancing Nato interoperability

The acquisition reflects Poland’s strategic commitment to enhancing its military capabilities and modernising its defence infrastructure. This order boosts Poland’s operational reach and strengthens interoperability with Nato allies, particularly the United States. The deal emphasises Poland’s growing role in European defence and its dedication to advancing its military technology.

Poland is set to boost its defence spending, reaching an estimated $48.5bn by 2029, with aspirations to enhance its role within Nato. This planned increase will see Poland’s defence expenditures align with US levels and surpass most Nato peers.

Kathleen Jolivette, vice president and general manager of Boeing’s Vertical Lift division, highlighted the significance of the deal: “Poland’s commitment to procure 96 aircraft represents the largest FMS order in the history of Boeing’s Vertical Lift division and will not only make Poland our 19th global Apache customer but the largest operator outside of the United States.”

The agreement includes offset projects, allowing the Polish defence industry to service and repair Apache radars and missile guidance systems. These initiatives will see Boeing supporting the development of Polish military infrastructure, including establishing maintenance and training programmes and creating a composite laboratory. The offsets are expected to drive technological advancements, generate jobs, and provide economic benefits to Poland.

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Vince Logsdon, Boeing’s vice president of International Business Development for Defense, Space & Security, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: ““We are honored the Government of Poland has placed their confidence in us. The AH-64E Apache helicopters will strengthen Poland’s operational capability and interoperability with the US, NATO and allied nations. We look forward to delivering this unmatched capability.”

Global adoption of the AH-64E Apache

GlobalData’s intelligence on the Polish defence market highlights that the Boeing AH-64E Apache carries a 30mm M230 chain gun and usually comes equipped with AGM-114 Hellfire missiles and Hydra 70 rocket pods. 

Apache AH-64E helicopters are increasingly being adopted worldwide. Australia is replacing its Tiger helicopters with 29 new AH-64Es. The Netherlands has received AH-64E Version 6 helicopters for a $1.2bn contract for 28 units. Similarly, the British Army is finalising its procurement of 50 AH-64E units. The US Army deployed AH-64E Version 6 helicopters in South Korea to the 4-2 Attack Battalion.

With more than 1,290 AH-64 Apaches currently in service worldwide, the AH-64E represents the most advanced configuration of the Apache helicopter, integrating technologies to deliver performance. Boeing’s ongoing support and training will ensure Poland’s new fleet is fully operational and incorporated into its defence strategy.

Poland’s selection of the AH-64E Apache marks an enhancement in its military arsenal and underscores a growing trend of Poland seeking American defence technologies to strengthen its position.

Poland is advancing its defence capabilities by seeking American technologies, with investments in F-35 fighter jets and Patriot missile systems. The first of 32 F-35A Lightning II jets is nearing completion. Simultaneously, Poland signed a contract to produce 48 M903 launchers for its Patriot missile defence system, strengthening its air defence infrastructure. These moves deepened its integration with Nato and the US.