Poland is seeking authorization to allocate 26 billion zlotys (approximately 6.1 billion euros) from the European Union’s post-COVID recovery funds for initiatives aimed at enhancing security and defense, as stated by the Minister of Development Funds and Regional Policy on Friday.
Minister Katarzyna Pelczynska-Nalecz informed reporters that the investments would focus on three key areas: population protection, modernization of industry including research and development, and safeguarding critical infrastructure, particularly in cybersecurity.
The EU’s recovery program offers Poland nearly 60 billion euros ($63.1 billion) in grants and low-interest loans, which must be utilized by 2026.
“We are pioneering the establishment of a security and defense fund within the National Recovery Plan, and I am aware that other nations are inquiring about how to implement a similar initiative,” Pelczynska-Nalecz remarked.
She noted that preliminary assessments from various ministries indicate a substantial demand, estimated at around 90 billion zlotys, while the fund is set at 26 billion zlotys, highlighting the significant investment needs in Poland.
Previously, Pelczynska-Nalecz had suggested that the fund could reach up to 30 billion zlotys.
She mentioned that discussions with Brussels, led by Poland’s defense and EU funds ministries, have commenced, and Poland has already received confirmation that investments could extend beyond the 2026 deadline.
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“There are still numerous critical issues we need to address, particularly regarding dual-use infrastructure and road infrastructure, which we intend to advocate strongly for in our discussions with the European Commission, emphasizing the essential nature of these investments,” she added.
Pelczynska-Nalecz expressed the goal of concluding negotiations by May 27, with the European Commission expected to make a decision on approval by June 20. She also indicated that national legislation would need to be enacted by the autumn.
Poland currently allocates a larger share of its gross domestic product to defense than any other NATO member and aims to increase this spending to 5% of GDP by next year.
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