Russia’s war on Ukraine has served as the driving force behind Warsaw’s recent procurement spree.
The U.S. State Department has approved the sale of 96 AH-64E Apache helicopters to the Polish Air Force for a total of $12 billion.
About a year ago, the Polish government submitted a request to purchase Boeing-made Apache helicopters, and according to Wojciech Murdzek, Poland's Minister of Defense, the initial helicopters will be delivered to the 18th Division of the Polish Army, equipped with American Abrams tanks.
The Russia-Ukraine War serves as the driving force behind Poland's procurement endeavor. Poland has also ordered 250 Abrams tanks, acquired Spike missiles from Rafael, and upgraded its air defense system for a total of $15 billion.
The Apache helicopter deal includes helicopter engines, targeting systems, night vision sensors, fire control radars, and missile warning systems.
Additionally, Poland is procuring 1,844 Hellfire missiles for the helicopters, along with 460 air-to-ground missiles, 508 Stinger missiles, and other weapon systems.
The Apache helicopters are manufactured in Boeing's facilities in Arizona. Lockheed Martin will supply the Hellfire missiles and the JAGM air-to-ground missiles.
Image - Boeing