Poland is taking a historic step in modernizing its naval forces by finalizing a $4.8 billion contract with the Swedish group Saab. The deal covers the production of three A26-class submarines, intended to replace the country’s aging Soviet-era Kilo-class vessels. This strategic move promises to transform Warsaw into one of the most formidable maritime powers within NATO, while simultaneously securing the Alliance’s eastern flank in the Baltic Sea.
Billion-dollar investment and long-term industrial partnerships
Beyond its military component, the contract represents a significant economic engine. Hundreds of Polish companies are set to become subcontractors, while the Swedish group has committed to investing approximately $114 million in local industrial infrastructure. This collaboration will be further solidified by the potential creation of a joint venture between Saab and Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa, responsible for the maintenance, repair, and life-cycle modernization of the new fleet.
Stealth technology and high-precision strike capabilities
A26-class submarines are renowned for their „extremely low acoustic signature,” making them far more difficult to detect than conventional submarines. They will be equipped with precision-strike torpedoes and will have the capability to launch submarine-launched missiles to engage both sea and land targets. Furthermore, their design allows for multi-domain operations, including support for special forces and minelaying missions, providing Poland with unprecedented tactical versatility.
Timeline challenges and interim solutions leading to 2031
While the first delivery is scheduled for 2031, the production history of the A26 class in Sweden raises questions regarding deadline compliance, given the delays experienced with vessels intended for the Swedish Navy. To bridge this capability gap, Poland has signed a secondary $195 million contract to lease the A17-class submarine HMS Södermanland. This vessel will serve under the Polish flag starting in 2027, once crews complete training supervised by Swedish specialists.
Safeguarding critical infrastructure and the Ratownik rescue vessel
The suite of agreements also includes a vital component for energy and telecommunications security: the acquisition of the „Ratownik” rescue vessel. This ship will be equipped with advanced technologies to protect submarine cables and pipelines in the Baltic Sea. In a tense geopolitical landscape, the ability to intervene rapidly for crew rescue and the protection of underwater infrastructure has become a top national priority for Poland.
