Poland announced on Wednesday that it had selected Sweden to provide it with three subs. The multi-billion dollar deal is a crucial element in Warsaw's effort to strengthen its defenses in the Baltic Sea.

Warsaw is increasing its investments in the military to counter what it perceives as an ever-growing threat from Russia following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. This deal is part of the "Orka", a programme that aims to strengthen Poland's military. It is the largest of a number of recent purchases.

At a press briefing, Wladyslaw KOSINIAK-KAMYSZ, Deputy Prime Minister, said that Sweden had the best proposal in terms of delivery time and operational capabilities, particularly in the Baltic Sea.

He stated that he wanted the deal to be concluded by the second quarter 2026.

Saab is a Swedish company that manufactures a variety of military equipment, including fighter jets as well as surveillance systems, missiles, and submarines. It will provide Poland with A26 subs.

Warsaw also received bids from Germany, Italy France, Spain, and South Korea. The British government had given its backing to the Swedish bid.

In September, Saab signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Collaboration with Polish armaments Group PGZ.

(source: Reuters)