Poland announces PLN 4.6 bln artillery deal

The Polish government stated on Wednesday that production of new Regina artillery units, which will have a total value of PLN 4.6 billion, will take place at the Stalowa Wola armaments production facility. Prime Minister Beata Szydło and defense minister Antoni Macierewicz signed the agreement at the plant. The Prime Minister said, “Congratulations are due many people who have decided, first of all, to develop the Polish army and [provide it with] equipment manufactured in Poland.” It was reported that production is slated to take place over eight years. The government emphasized that it believed the deal was beneficial for both economic and security purposes. “Because PiS is clear that our priorities are economic development based on the restoration of industry, linking [Polish production to] the arms industry to become a driving force of the Polish economy,” the PM added. Minister Macierewicz claimed that the contract is of great importance for the development (of the Polish army). “These [gun] modules, which we ordered, tell us that the Polish army will be a strong army, capable of facing any opponent,” said Macierewicz. The PM announced that the government wishes to pursue more contracts like the one in Stalowa Wola. Poland’s spending on defense has increased from 1.3 percent of GDP in 2013 to over 2.2 percent in 2016.