Poland has signed a Foreign Military Sales (FMS) Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA) with the United States for 96 Boeing AH-64E Apache attack helicopters. This acquisition forms a cornerstone of Poland’s KRUK Attack Helicopter program, marking a substantial upgrade in the Polish Armed Forces’ offensive capabilities. The decision to select the AH-64E Apache was made in September 2022, amid growing regional security concerns. The U.S. State Department’s approval of the sale, valued at an estimated $12 billion, underscores the strategic importance of this deal. This contract follows closely on the heels of an offset agreement between the Polish Ministry of National Defence and Boeing, which was announced just a week earlier. The offset agreement is particularly noteworthy as it integrates Poland’s defense industry into the long-term maintenance and support of the Apache fleet, ensuring that the helicopters remain operational and effective throughout their service life. Additionally, it includes the establishment of advanced training programs and the development of a composite laboratory, which will significantly contribute to the technological advancement of Poland’s defense sector.
Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, Poland’s deputy prime minister and minister for national defense said,“The Apaches order was an “epochal change” for the modernization and development of helicopter aviation within the Polish Armed Forces. This is an agreement that changes the face of aviation, changes the face of the functioning of the Polish army.”
“We are honored the Government of Poland has placed their confidence in us. The AH-64E Apache helicopters will strengthen Poland’s operational capability and interoperability with the U.S., NATO and allied nations. We look forward to delivering this unmatched capability,” said Vince Logsdon, vice president, International Business Development for Boeing Defense, Space & Security. “.”
“Poland’s commitment to procure 96 aircraft represents the largest FMS order in the history of Boeing’s Vertical Lift division and will not only make Poland our 19th global Apache customer but the largest operator outside of the United States,” said Kathleen Jolivette, vice president and general manager, Vertical Lift.
Poland’s acquisition includes not only the helicopters but a comprehensive package of related equipment. The deal encompasses 210 T700-GE 701D engines, 97 AN/ASQ-170 Modernized Target Acquisition and Designation Sight/AN/AAR-11 Modernized Pilot Night Vision Sensors, and 37 AN/APG-78 Fire Control Radars, among other advanced systems. The procurement of such an extensive array of equipment is designed to ensure that Poland’s Apache fleet is equipped with the latest technology, enhancing its combat readiness and operational flexibility. Poland’s decision to acquire 96 Apaches marks a dramatic shift from its initial plan to replace its aging fleet of Mil Mi-24 “Hind” attack helicopters on a one-for-one basis, which would have totaled just 24 aircraft. The expanded order is a direct response to the heightened threat perception following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in early 2022. By quadrupling the number of helicopters, Poland is not only significantly increasing its air assault capabilities but also aligning itself with its broader defense ambitions. This acquisition is part of a wider effort by Warsaw to modernize its military, which includes the procurement of main battle tanks, rocket artillery systems, combat aircraft, and battlefield utility helicopters.
The order places Poland among the top operators of the Apache outside the United States, with a fleet nearly double the size of the UK’s. This move is consistent with Poland’s determination to rid itself of Soviet-era equipment and build a modern, NATO-compatible force capable of deterring any potential Russian aggression. Despite political changes within Poland, the current government has maintained its commitment to these critical defense acquisitions, recognizing their importance to national security. The economic and industrial benefits of this acquisition are significant. Poland’s Military Aviation Works WZL-1 in Deblin and the Military University of Technology in Warsaw (WAT) will play key roles in maintaining and supporting the Apache fleet, particularly the GE Aerospace T700 engines and Longbow radars. Furthermore, Boeing has entrusted WZL-1 with the inspection, repair, and overhaul of selected AH-64E components, ensuring that these critical systems remain operational. This collaboration will also see the training of AH-64E technical service staff at WAT, further enhancing Poland’s expertise in maintaining advanced military technologies.
