The U.S. State Department approved the $10.5 billion sale of the Patriot anti-missile system to Poland, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said on Friday.
“Poland will use the IBCS [Battle Command System]-enabled Patriot missile system to improve its missile defense capability, defend its territorial integrity, and deter regional threats,” DSCA said in a press release.
“The proposed sale will increase the defensive capabilities of the Polish Military to guard against hostile aggression and shield the NATO allies who often train and operate within Poland’s borders,” the agency added.
According to the release, the Polish government intends to purchase the Patriot Anti-Missile System consisting of four AN/MPQ-65 radar sets, four engagement control stations, 16 M903 launching stations, 208 Patriot Advanced Capabilty-3 (PAC-3) missiles, and additional required equipment, training, and spares.
“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by helping to improve the security of a NATO ally which has been, and continues to be an important force for political stability and economic progress in Europe,” the release said. “This sale is consistent with U.S. initiatives to provide key allies in the region with modern systems that will enhance interoperability with U.S. forces and increase security.”
Raytheon Corporation, Lockheed-Martin and Northrop Grumman will be the prime contractors for the deal, according to the release.
A State Department official said that if the proposed sale concludes, Poland will have greater flexibility to conduct air and missile defense operations with the U.S. and other NATO allies that possess the Patriot system, including The Netherlands, Germany, Spain, and Greece.
“The United States and Poland have a strong relationship as partners and Allies. We are proud to work extremely closely with our Polish allies in confronting common challenges, from Afghanistan to Ukraine, and we will continue to do so,” the official added.