Poland's PIT-RADWAR and Military Electronic Works (WZE) have signed contracts with Norway's Kongsberg Defense and Aerospace (KDA) for the supply of vehicles and systems for the construction and delivery of two Naval Missile Units, as well as the maintenance and production of the Naval Strike Missile. The PIT-RADWAR contract is for the Polish Coastal Defense System (NSM-CDS) and includes the production and delivery of vehicles for four coastal missile squadrons. The total value of the PIT-RADWAR contract is over PLN1.1 billion (US$260 million), with deliveries expected to be completed by 2029. The contract with WZE involves the transfer of knowledge and technology related to the maintenance and production of NSM missiles. These contracts signify Poland's efforts to enhance its coastal defense capabilities.
In addition to the contracts with PIT-RADWAR and WZE, the US has approved a potential $1.2 billion deal with Poland for radar recon aerostat systems. Poland had requested to buy Airspace and Surface Radar Reconnaissance (ASRR) aerostat systems with associated equipment. The State Department approval comes as Poland makes a push for greater regional air domain awareness. The primary contractors for the deal are Raytheon Intelligence and Space, ELTA North America, and Avantus Federal LLC.
Meanwhile, in Pembrokeshire, Wales, campaigners are calling for the UK government to scrap plans to build a space radar installation at an old air force base. The proposed Deep Space Advanced Radar Capability (DARC) site would consist of 27 radar dishes that are taller than four London buses and capable of seeing a football in space. Defence Secretary Grant Shapps believes the system could help the UK protect itself from 'space warfare'. However, some residents fear the installation would be damaging to the area. The UK, US, and Australia have signed a security pact to build a system that can identify potential 'targets' up to 22,000 miles away from Earth. The first radar site will be built in Australia and is expected to be operational by 2026, followed by the US and UK sites. The final decision on the UK site depends on the outcome of an environmental impact assessment and a planning application to Pembrokeshire council. Campaigners are concerned about the impact on the local community, the economy, and the landscape. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has said that the radar capability would make space 'safer and more secure'. The proposed site in Pembrokeshire has a unique geographic positioning for global monitoring and coverage. The MoD has previously stated that the radar network would mark a 'new phase' of the security arrangement between the UK, US, and Australia. The Conservatives have called for more information about the plan, while Plaid Cymru has said it will have a 'hugely negative impact' on the community.
Poland has also signed a $735 million contract with the U.S. for the supply of JASSM-ER missiles. The contract was announced by Defence Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz. The missiles have a range of around 1,000 kilometers. This comes as Poland is spending around 4% of its GDP on defense and has recently announced an agreement with the U.S. for the delivery of a $960 million airspace reconnaissance system.
Morocco has acquired 24 F-16 Viper fighter jets from Lockheed Martin, strengthening its military air power and aiming to ensure regional security. The acquisition is part of a strategic partnership between Morocco and the United States, with deliveries scheduled for 2026. The F-16 Viper is equipped with advanced technology, including the AN/APG-83 AESA radar and the AN/ALQ-33 Sniper targeting module, enhancing its combat performance. Morocco has significantly increased its defense budget and investment in military hardware, prioritizing security in the Mediterranean and Western Sahara. The country seeks to consolidate its position as a key player in the region and contribute to global peace and security efforts.