Poland is enhancing its military capabilities by leasing eight Boeing AH-64D Apache attack helicopters from the United States. This $300 million agreement, signed on 27 February 2025 at the 56th Aviation Base in Inowrocław, serves as a preparatory step before the arrival of 96 AH-64E Apache helicopters, ordered in August 2024.
Strengthening Poland’s Defence
The leased AH-64D Apaches are expected to arrive between June and September 2025. They will be integrated into the 1st Army Aviation Brigade, facilitating intensive training for pilots, technical staff, and support personnel. This initiative aims to enhance Poland’s operational readiness nearly two years ahead of the scheduled delivery of the AH-64E models. The Deputy Prime Minister and defense Minister, Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, emphasised the strategic importance of this lease.
“In 2028, we are awaiting the first 15 of the 96 units that we ordered last year for a considerable amount of 10 billion dollars.
This is why we are leasing today, we are spending $300 million on this, so that our pilots, ground crews can get familiar with this gear, learn all the skills, take control of it.”
Transition to Advanced Capabilities
The AH-64D Apache helicopters will serve as an interim solution, enabling Polish military personnel to acquire essential skills in operating and maintaining Apache helicopters. This experience is crucial as Poland transitions to the more advanced AH-64E models. The AH-64E Apache Guardian offers enhanced capabilities, including improved target acquisition, advanced avionics, and better interoperability with NATO forces.
Financial and Industrial Commitments
In October 2024, Poland secured a $3.08 billion Foreign Military Financing loan from the United States to support the acquisition of the AH-64E Apaches. This loan underscores a strengthened defense partnership between Warsaw and Washington.
Additionally, Polish defense companies have established offset agreements to service and upgrade the helicopters. We expect this collaboration to bolster Poland’s defense industry and ensure the long-term sustainability of the Apache fleet.
Strategic Implications
Upon completion of the deliveries by 2032, Poland will become the second-largest operator of Apache helicopters globally, following the United States. This significant enhancement to Poland’s attack helicopter fleet is a strategic move to strengthen national defense and contribute more robustly to NATO operations.
The integration of the AH-64 Apache helicopters is poised to transform Poland’s military aviation capabilities, providing a formidable deterrent and reinforcing the country’s commitment to collective security within the NATO alliance.
References
- Poland leases eight Apache gunships as warmup ahead of major delivery
- Poland signs USD 300 million lease for eight Boeing AH-64D Apache attack helicopters
- Poland to Become Europe’s Top Attack Helicopter Fleet with New Apache AH-64E
- Poland Signs LOA for 96 Boeing AH-64E Apache Helicopters
- Poland – AH-64E Apache Helicopters | Defense Security Cooperation Agency
- Poland buys 96 Apache helicopters from U.S.
