Polish Defense Minister Mariusz Błaszczak has signed an agreement with the United Kingdom to develop a new ground-based air defense system for the Polish military.
The partnership will allow the countries to share pioneering technology for the future Narew air defense system, providing both nations with enhanced defense capabilities while sustaining critical skills across the missile sector.
The Narew program will include the Common Anti-air Modular Missile (CAMM) developed by European arms manufacturer MBDA. The missile system is capable of supersonic speeds to destroy various air-based threats such as stealth aircraft and high-speed missiles.
“In choosing MBDA and the CAMM family, Poland will receive the benefits of a true European missile partnership, the latest capabilities, and the ability to secure and develop highly skilled jobs in its defence industry,” MBDA Managing Director Chris Allam said in a statement.
Meanwhile, British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace expressed that the partnership will deliver a steep change in the defense cooperation of both European nations. He said the collaboration could pave the way for British and Polish armed forces to operate more closely.
Affirming Support for Poland
The agreement was signed during Wallace’s recent visit to Warsaw, where he reaffirmed his country’s support for Poland amid increasing tensions with Belarus.
The British official also revealed that the UK would continue to offer practical support by deploying skilled military engineers to provide technical and liaison assistance to Polish armed personnel deployed at the border.
“The best way to respond is to work together hand in hand, not only within NATO, but simply as good friends and partners,” Wallace told The Guardian. He accused Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko of a “disgusting attempt” to use refugees as a weapon.
Both Poland and the UK are investing in enhancing their military capabilities and modernizing their armed forces. They will also reportedly exceed NATO’s defense spending target of two percent of gross domestic product.