# Poland Orka submarine procurement program

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/poland-orka-submarine-procurement-program
> Updated: 2026-10-13T07:28:46.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2.

Poland has initiated the Orka program to modernize its naval capabilities by selecting the Swedish company Saab to provide three advanced A26-class submarines. The procurement process included competition from other international firms, such as South Korea’s Hanwha Ocean, but ultimately favored Saab’s design. The first new vessels are expected to enter service between 2031 and 2038.

To bridge the gap while awaiting these new vessels and transitioning away from Soviet-era Kilo-class submarines, Sweden has agreed to lease the HMS Södermanland to Poland. This arrangement includes technical support, weaponry, and an 18-month training program for approximately thirty Polish military members at the naval base in Karlskrona. 

In addition to the submarine program, Polish shipyard Remontowa is participating in broader naval modernization, building Kormoran II class minehunters and acting as a partner for Saab in the construction of electronic reconnaissance vessels.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-13: Sweden to lease HMS Södermanland submarine to Poland

Sweden will lease the HMS Södermanland submarine to Poland to provide interim undersea capabilities while Warsaw awaits the delivery of new A26-class submarines under the Orka program.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/sweden-to-lease-hms-sdermanland-submarine-to-poland

### 2026-09-28: Poland selects Saab for Orka submarine program

Poland has selected Saab's A26 submarines for its Orka program, rejecting a free submarine offer from South Korea's Hanwha Ocean. Remontowa Shipbuilding continues to support naval production.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/poland-selects-saab-for-orka-submarine-program

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Cite as: Poland Orka submarine procurement program. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/poland-orka-submarine-procurement-program