Poland is buying three submarines from Sweden for 4.5 billion euros

As part of its efforts to modernize its navy, Poland has signed a deal worth approximately 4.5 billion euros to purchase three A26 submarines from Swedish manufacturer Saab. The agreement took place in Gdynia during intergovernmental consultations between the two countries and was announced with the participation of Prime Ministers Donald Tusk and Ulf Kristersson. This is seen as part of Poland's goal to renew its submarine fleet under the Orka program.

Poland currently has only one submarine: a 40-year-old Soviet-era vessel that requires constant maintenance. The country plans to replace this ship with three A26 Blekinge class submarines developed by Saab but not yet in service. While the first submarine is expected to be delivered in 2031, some Polish media outlets give the date 2030. Saab, however, stated that deliveries will be completed by 2038.

The agreement is not just a purchase but also includes major investments and technology transfer to Poland's shipbuilding industry. Polish state defense group PGZ signed a memorandum of understanding with Saab to develop competencies in submarine maintenance and repair. Kristersson said that hundreds of Polish companies will take part in this project as subcontractors and that the two countries will share technology in strategic areas.

Emphasizing that this cooperation is a momentum for the development of the Polish defense industry, Tusk said, "This is not a simple buying and selling matter, but a real partnership that benefits both industries." The two leaders stated that the agreement is a sign of increasing security and commercial ties. Poland and Sweden had signed a strategic partnership agreement in 2024 on defense, economy, and support for Ukraine.

This agreement is considered a significant step in Poland's military modernization efforts. As the country increases its defense spending as a NATO ally, cooperation between the two countries is also deepening following Sweden's NATO membership. The submarines are expected to strengthen Poland's presence in the Baltic Sea and contribute to regional security.