Poland has agreed to purchase the combat-proven Patriot integrated air and missile defense system (see figure), having recently signed an agreement with the U.S. government. The sophisticated defense system is made by Raytheon Co. The agreement, which is part of a letter of offer and acceptance (LOA), will generate new defense-industry jobs in both Poland and the United States. It will also serve to strengthen NATO’s and Europe’s defense against airborne threats.
“Poland joins the now-15-nation-strong group of countries which trust Patriot to defend their citizens, military and sovereignty,” said Wes Kremer, president of Raytheon’s Integrated Defense Systems business. “Poland’s procurement of Patriot strengthens trans-Atlantic partnership and security, and creates jobs in the U.S. and Poland.”
Poland becomes the 15th nation and 7th NATO member to rely on the Patriot system for defense against ballistic and cruise missiles, advanced aircraft, and drones.
Poland recently increased the percentage of its global domestic product that’s dedicated to national defense. In addition, Polish law requires that a portion of a defense contract remain within country. The setup represents a growth opportunity for both Raytheon and the emerging Polish defense industry.
“This is an exciting time for Polish industry and the beginning of a new era,” said Pete Bata, Raytheon vice president of Polish Air and Missile Defense. “Shortly after the signing of the LOA, Raytheon will begin to place contracts in Poland which will create new, high tech jobs.
“At the same time,” he added, “Poland is also investing in the Patriot partnership and creating new jobs in the U. S. that wouldn’t have existed otherwise.”
Poland joins the U.S. and 14 allied nations in Europe, the Pacific Rim, and Middle East in a unique international collaboration in which experience and information are shared to help improve the Patriot weapons system.
