Poland looks to Turkey’s defense industry model for military growth

Polish Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense, Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz, has identified Turkey’s defense industry transformation as a model for Poland’s own strategic goals. Speaking at the 34th International Defense Industry Fair in Kielce, Kosiniak-Kamysz described Turkey’s progress over the last two decades as a “massive leap.”

He noted that 20 years ago, Turkey produced only 20% of its required military equipment and imported 80%. Today, those figures have been reversed, with Turkey evolving from a buyer into an active producer and exporter. Kosiniak-Kamysz expressed a desire to implement a similar model in Poland to bolster military autonomy and industrial growth.

Currently, Poland’s domestic production and procurement ratio stands at 50-50. The Polish government aims to increase the share of domestic production to ensure a “strong and secure Poland,” particularly in light of the security environment created by the war in Ukraine. The Minister emphasized priorities such as strengthening the army, securing borders, and equipping soldiers with high-quality personal gear. The fair also showcased new developments, including a 40-ton heavy armored combat vehicle prototype developed by the Poland Armament Group based on the Borsuk amphibious vehicle.