Poland to Finalise Submarine Purchase Decision This Week, Says Prime Minister

Poland is expected to make a final decision this week on acquiring new submarines, a move that would lead to the country’s first such purchase before the end of the year, according to Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
The plan involves acquiring three submarines through the “Orka” programme, aimed at modernising Poland’s naval forces, strengthening underwater combat capabilities, and deepening military cooperation with NATO in light of increased regional tensions since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

“We will adopt a resolution that commits to purchasing submarines by the end of this year. The bids have been reviewed, and now the Polish government will decide who will be the programme’s partner,” Tusk told journalists.

According to local media, top contenders in the multi-billion-dollar deal include Germany, Italy, and Sweden — all fellow members of both NATO and the European Union.
Earlier this month, Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri and Poland’s state-owned defence group PGZ signed a memorandum of understanding to work together on upgrading the Polish Navy, with particular focus on the Orka submarine initiative.
South Korean company Hanwha Ocean also strengthened its offer in June by including a financing arrangement as part of its proposal to supply submarines to Poland.