Poland signs $2bn Patriot missile deal with US amid calls for EU air-defence shield

Poland will sign a $2 billion contract with the United States on Monday to provide critical logistical and technical support for its Patriot missile-defence systems, marking the final step in making the country’s air-defence network fully operational.

The deal, announced by Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz in Kraków, points to Warsaw’s determination to fortify its airspace as Russia’s war in Ukraine enters its third year and European leaders debate how best to strengthen the continent’s defences, Bloomberg reported.

“Air-defence is the biggest investment into the Polish army, requiring the largest funds,” Kosiniak-Kamysz told broadcaster Polsat. “This is the protection of the Polish sky, this is within Polish airspace — so it is an absolute priority for us and it is very good that there is a Polish-American cooperation in this area.”

The deal comes as Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, alongside other European leaders, pushes for a broader, European-wide sky shield to deter potential aggression from hostile actors.

Poland has emerged as one of Europe’s most hawkish defenders of increased military readiness, particularly in light of its proximity to Ukraine and history of tensions with Russia. Since the Russia-Ukraine war began in 2022, Warsaw has ramped up defence spending and procurement, including the acquisition of US-made F-35 fighter jets, South Korean howitzers and German Leopard tanks.

What are Patriot missiles?

The Patriot is a surface-to-air missile system developed by the US defense contractor Raytheon. It is designed to intercept and destroy incoming threats such as ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and advanced aircraft. The system uses a sophisticated phased-array radar to track targets and guide interceptor missiles to their destination.

Patriot batteries are mobile and modular, consisting of a radar set, control station, power plant and launcher.

The system first gained prominence during the Gulf War and has since been deployed in multiple theatres, including the war in Ukraine, where they have been credited with shooting down Russian hypersonic missiles.

Patriot missile systems form part of Poland’s medium- and long-range air-defence capability.

With inputs from agencies