United States–Poland Military Partnership

For our freedom and yours. This Polish motto, dating back to the 19th century, has taken on renewed significance in the U.S.-Poland military alliance, particularly after Russia’s aggression in Ukraine. As a frontline NATO state, Poland has become a linchpin of U.S. deterrence strategy in Eastern Europe, hosting permanent U.S. bases, advanced missile defense systems, and rotational combat forces. Poland’s defense modernization—bolstered by U.S. weapons acquisitions—has made it one of the fastest-growing military powers in Europe and a vital partner in NATO’s collective defense posture.

History

• Post-Cold War NATO Integration (1990s–2004): Poland pursued closer ties with the U.S. and joined NATO in 1999.
• Defense Cooperation Agreement (2008): Allowed for U.S. missile defense systems and rotational troop presence.
• Enhanced U.S. Presence (2014–Present): Following Russia’s annexation of Crimea, Poland became a key hub for U.S. and NATO deterrence efforts.
• Permanent U.S. Military Base (2023): The U.S. established Camp Kosciuszko, its first permanent military base in Poland, marking a new phase in the alliance.

Key Characteristics

• U.S. Military Bases & Rotational Forces:
  • Camp Kosciuszko (Poznań): First permanent U.S. military facility in Poland, supporting NATO operations and logistics.
  • Redzikowo Aegis Ashore Site: Part of NATO’s missile defense system, intercepting potential ballistic missile threats.
  • U.S. Armored Brigade Combat Teams (ABCTs): Rotational tank and infantry units deployed in Polandas part of NATO’s deterrence efforts.
• Joint Military Training & Exercises:
  • Defender Europe: Large-scale NATO drills testing force mobility and interoperability.
  • Anakonda: Poland-led military exercise, involving U.S. and NATO forces in multi-domain operations.
  • BALTOPS & Saber Strike: Focused on air defense, cyber warfare, and rapid response capabilities.
• Defense Modernization & Arms Purchases: Poland has acquired M1A2 Abrams tanks, HIMARS rocket artillery, F-35 fighter jets, and Patriot missile defense systems from the U.S. The U.S. supports Poland’s military modernization efforts, ensuring NATO compatibility and enhanced warfighting capabilities.

Strategic Importance

• NATO’s Eastern Flank & Russian Deterrence: Poland is a frontline NATO state, hosting U.S. troops and missile defense systems to counter Russian threats.
• Key Logistics & Military Hub: Poland serves as the main transit point for U.S. and NATO reinforcements into Eastern Europe.
• Missile Defense & Air Superiority: The partnership strengthens regional air and missile defense capabilities, ensuring quick reaction forces can operate effectively.

Links

• U.S.-Poland Defense Cooperation Agreement (2020)
• Camp Kosciuszko & U.S. Military Presence
• Poland’s NATO Role & Defense Modernization