Poland, a NATO member, has placed an order for three Swedish submarines as part of efforts to bolster its defense capabilities amid perceived threats from Russia. The contract, valued at €4.2 billion ($4.8 billion), was signed on Monday in the Baltic port of Gdynia.

The deal, between Poland's State Treasury Armaments Agency and Swedish defense contractor Saab, includes three A26 (Blekinge-class) submarines, a weapons package, and training and maintenance services. Deliveries are scheduled from 2030 to 2038.

Saab will also establish maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facilities in Poland, operated in collaboration with local companies, to enhance Polish defense autonomy. The A26-class submarines are diesel-electric and designed for stealth operations in the Baltic Sea.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk praised the cooperation with Sweden, while Swedish PM Ulf Kristersson stated that the deal strengthens security in the Baltic Sea and NATO. Currently, Poland operates only one aging Russian submarine; until 2030, Sweden will provide the HMS Södermanland on loan.

The deal comes as European NATO members rush to modernize their militaries amid Russia's aggression in Ukraine and doubts about US commitment under President Donald Trump. Competitors included firms from France, Germany, Italy, South Korea, and Spain.

Source: www.dw.com