Poland speeds up helicopter purchase

Poland has already launched the first stage of the procurement of new military helicopters, originally scheduled for 2016, Deputy Defense Minister Czesław Mroczek told Reuters. So far, ten companies have submitted offers. “The events in Ukraine are having a clear negative impact on regional and international security and have made us ... realize there was a need for updating our technical modernization plans,” Mroczek said. “As a result of the review, the plans have been updated by speeding up the programs which increase our military's attack force, as well as its deterrence potential,” he added. The ministry expects to have the helicopters ready for operation in 2019 or 2020, Mroczek also said.