Poland and UK Sign Three-Year Defence Cooperation Agreement

Poland and the United Kingdom have signed a three-year defence cooperation plan aimed at strengthening their defence capabilities and enhancing security cooperation. The agreement was signed on Tuesday during a meeting between the two countries’ defence ministers in Warsaw, the Polish capital.

Under the agreement, the two countries will cooperate on artificial intelligence, drones, counter-drone systems, emerging technologies and the development of advanced deterrence capabilities. They will also focus on joint military exercises and improving the operational capabilities of their armed forces in various scenarios.

Polish Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz said joint initiatives include the Miecznik naval programme, the development of an integrated air defence system under the Narew and Pilica projects, and the establishment of domestic production lines for 155mm ammunition.

UK Defence Minister Wes Streeting said the agreement reflects the two countries’ shared assessment of current threats and their determination to address them. He added that the UK and Poland would not remain passive observers in the struggle between freedom and authoritarianism.

The ministers also discussed support for Ukraine and alleged Russian hybrid attacks against Poland. Streeting described the attacks as state-sponsored terrorism. Both countries agreed to continue supporting Ukraine.

Relations with the United States were also discussed. The ministers expressed support for strengthening Europe’s own defence capabilities. However, rather than seeking complete independence from the United States, they stressed the importance of reinforcing NATO and transatlantic ties.

Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts by the United States and European countries to end the war in Ukraine are continuing. The Kremlin has said that the next round of talks could take place in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, in mid-November. However, key issues concerning territory and security remain unresolved.