Poland Signs $10 Bln Deal for 96 US Apache Helicopters

Poland has finalized a significant deal with U.S. defense giant Boeing to acquire 96 AH-64E Apache combat helicopters.

The agreement, announced by Polish Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz on Tuesday, is part of Poland’s ongoing effort to modernize its military following the 2022 Ukrainian crisis.

The $10 billion deal (€9.14 billion) is seen as a historic move in bolstering Poland’s defense capabilities.

The advanced Apache helicopters are expected to enhance the country’s ability to respond to regional security threats, given its proximity to Ukraine and its strong support for Kyiv amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia.

This contract is the latest in a series of defense agreements between Poland and the United States.

Last Friday, Warsaw announced the purchase of hundreds of AIM-120C AMRAAM missiles, and just two days ago, it secured a deal to produce 48 Patriot missile launchers, which are also American-designed.

Poland’s defense spending has skyrocketed in response to regional tensions, with the country allocating more than 4% of its GDP—about $33 billion—for defense in 2024.

This figure is double the NATO-recommended 2%, underlining Poland’s commitment to strengthening its military in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine.