On November 26, 2025, Poland made a decisive move to modernize its naval forces, announcing the purchase of three advanced A26 model submarines from Sweden's renowned defense firm Saab. The deal, valued at over 2.3 billion euros, marks a significant investment in Poland's military capabilities and a new chapter in regional security cooperation in the Baltic Sea. The contract for these submarines is set to be signed before the end of 2025, signaling a swift transition from Poland's aging Soviet-era submarine fleet to state-of-the-art technology.
This procurement comes at a crucial time for Poland, whose only existing submarine had become a persistent headache, requiring constant repairs and threatening to leave the country without any viable underwater fleet. According to Poland's Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz, "Sweden's offer was the only one that met all the navy's expectations," as reported by AFP and echoed in multiple European news outlets. The decision to go with Sweden was not made lightly: no fewer than six countries—Sweden, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and South Korea—competed for the prestigious contract. Yet, it was only Sweden's proposal that checked every box on Poland's extensive list of requirements.
The A26 model submarines, developed by Saab, have been lauded for their cutting-edge technology and operational versatility. While the specific features of these subs remain closely guarded secrets, Saab's reputation for innovation in underwater defense systems is well established. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson did not hide his pride in the achievement, stating, "The deal demonstrates the strength of Sweden's defense industry and Saab's leading submarine program." Kristersson went further in a message posted on X (formerly Twitter), emphasizing the broader geopolitical implications: "Poland and Sweden share a deep common view on European security challenges. Sweden and Poland together take greater responsibility for the security of the Baltic Sea."
This sense of shared purpose has been echoed on both sides of the Baltic. For Poland, the acquisition is about more than just hardware—it's a leap toward securing its maritime borders and maintaining a credible deterrent posture in a region that has seen its share of tensions in recent years. The Polish defense establishment has been vocal about the need to keep its armed forces up to date, particularly as the security environment in Europe evolves. The replacement of the last Soviet-era submarine, which had become a relic in need of constant maintenance, was seen as a top priority. Without the new vessels, Polish submariners would have been left with nothing to train on or maintain their skills, a prospect that alarmed military planners in Warsaw.
Saab's A26 submarines are expected to be a game-changer for Poland. Designed for stealth, endurance, and adaptability, these vessels are part of a new generation of non-nuclear submarines that can operate in shallow waters like those of the Baltic Sea, as well as in the open ocean. The A26's modular design allows for a range of missions, from intelligence gathering and surveillance to anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare. This flexibility is precisely what Poland was looking for in its quest to modernize its fleet.
The financial scope of the deal—over 2.3 billion euros—is not insignificant. It reflects both the complexity of the technology involved and the seriousness with which Poland is approaching its defense modernization. For Sweden, the transaction is a major win for its defense sector, showcasing Saab's ability to compete and triumph on the international stage. The deal also underscores the growing importance of European defense cooperation at a time when global security dynamics are shifting rapidly.
According to reporting from Yle and other outlets, the submarines will contribute to building new security infrastructure in the Baltic Sea. This is no small matter. The Baltic region has become a focal point for security concerns, with increased military activity and a renewed emphasis on alliances and partnerships. The joint effort by Poland and Sweden to bolster Baltic Sea security sends a clear message to both allies and potential adversaries: the region's security cannot be taken for granted, and proactive steps are being taken to address emerging threats.
Defense Minister Kosiniak-Kamysz highlighted the competitive nature of the procurement process, noting that five other countries—France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and South Korea—were in the running. Yet, it was Sweden's offer that stood out. "Sweden's offer is the only one that fulfills all the navy's expectations," he told reporters, as cited by AFP. This endorsement speaks volumes about the level of trust and confidence Poland places in Swedish technology and its ability to deliver on demanding military requirements.
For Sweden, the deal is more than just a commercial success. Prime Minister Kristersson framed it as a testament to Sweden's robust defense industry and its world-class submarine program. "The deal demonstrates the strength of Sweden's defense industry and Saab's leading submarine program," he said, underscoring the strategic value of the partnership. The collaboration also reflects a broader trend in European defense, where countries are increasingly looking to each other for solutions to shared security challenges.
The implications of the deal extend beyond the immediate parties involved. By investing in advanced submarines, Poland is not only enhancing its own security but also contributing to the collective defense of the Baltic region. The new submarines will serve as a deterrent to hostile actions and help maintain stability in an area that has historically been a flashpoint for conflict. The move also aligns with NATO's emphasis on interoperability and the modernization of member states' armed forces.
As the contract is set to be signed before the end of 2025, attention will now turn to the timeline for delivery and integration of the new submarines into the Polish Navy. Training, maintenance, and operational planning will all be critical components of the transition. Both Poland and Sweden have signaled their commitment to working closely together throughout the process, ensuring that the submarines are not just delivered, but fully operational and ready to meet the challenges of the 21st century.
This landmark deal between Poland and Sweden is more than a simple arms purchase. It's a statement of intent—a declaration that both countries are prepared to invest in the long-term security of the Baltic Sea and, by extension, the stability of Europe as a whole. With the ink soon to dry on the contract, all eyes will be on how this partnership shapes the future of regional defense.
