We draw conclusions from the war in Ukraine and are updating missile troops and artillery. Recently, an executive contract was finalized for the purchase of six K9A1 self-propelled howitzers and 146 K9PL units, together with a training, logistics package, and ammunition supplies, announced the head of the Ministry of National Defense, Mariusz Błaszczak. This move follows a broader assessment that the Polish army should field more than 1,000 155 mm gun howitzers, a recommendation endorsed by SGWP and DGRSZ. The agreement marks another step in expanding Poland’s long-range firepower while strengthening its national defense posture. Source: Minister of Defense via X platform.
The defense leadership highlighted that the deal includes technology transfer designed to sustain and modernize this equipment within Polish industry. The terms emphasize domestic industrial participation and future maintenance capabilities, ensuring that Poland gains enduring access to modern artillery through local expertise and production potential. Source: Ministry of National Defense communications.
Operating costs represent a significant portion of the life cycle costs of weapons. The package enables Poland to pursue modular production opportunities and to advance ammunition self-sufficiency for gun howitzers. The Armament Agency has invited HSW to discussions aimed at increasing the supply of KRAB systems, underscoring a broader plan to broaden domestic artillery capacity. Source: Ministry of National Defense updates.
According to a Polish Army website summary, the executive agreement, valued at a net 2.6 billion USD, was concluded between the Ministry of Finance – Armaments Agency and Hanwha Defense. It covers the purchase of an additional six K9A1 self-propelled howitzers in 2025 and 146 K9PL units in 2026–2027. The contract also covers training, logistics, and a substantial stock of 155 mm ammunition, including tens of thousands of rounds. The logistics package includes spare parts, consumables, and operating equipment for the howitzers.
As part of the technology transfer, technical documentation will be provided to Polish industries, fostering industrial potential and enabling maintenance, renovation, and modernization work. This also includes producing selected structural elements within Polish defense enterprises, accelerating the capability to keep modern artillery in service. Source: Polish Army notice.
The planned activities are aimed at rapidly achieving the operational capabilities required by the Polish Armed Forces within a few years, equipping them with up-to-date military hardware that aligns with national defense goals. Source: WP website.
kk/PAP
Source: wPolityce