Accelerating Arms Sales to Poland: A Strategic Move for U.S. Allies

A Strategic Shift for Poland's Defense

President-elect Donald J. Trump values his friendship with Polish President Andrzej Duda, and that rapport could guide a crucial shift in how Washington supports Poland’s defense needs. Despite Poland’s proven commitment as NATO’s principal bulwark on the alliance’s eastern flank, the country remains stuck in a slow-moving line for Foreign Military Sales (FMS) deliveries—a process bogged down by global demand and complicated further by the Ukraine war’s relentless strains on supply. Waiting years for top-tier American defense and aerospace technology is not just inconvenient for Poland—it’s dangerous.

The recent inauguration of a U.S. air defense base in Redzikowo, near Poland’s Baltic coast, highlights how deeply American security commitments run, regardless of who holds the White House. Poland’s leadership repeatedly emphasizes that the alliance’s credibility endures through various U.S. administrations. But the glacial pace of export controls and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) must be addressed to match Poland’s swift modernization goals. Poland, having sent 325 tanks to Ukraine, sheltered nearly a million Ukrainian refugees, and invested a remarkable 4.7% of GDP in defense—more than any other NATO ally including the U.S.—has done its part. With 10,000 U.S. troops stationed on Polish soil and a newly operational American missile base up north, it’s time to treat Poland more like top-tier allies such as Australia and Britain, streamlining the arms transfer process.

Poland as NATO's Champion

NATO’s posture in Central and Eastern Europe is evolving rapidly. Warsaw’s centrality to this vision is unmistakable as Poland loads up on jet fighters, helicopters, air defense systems, and advanced armor. They’ve poured an astonishing $50 billion into American hardware—an infusion that also generates American jobs and revenue. As the European Union quietly contemplates rerouting aerospace deals away from U.S. suppliers, and as Russia’s looming threat intensifies, America cannot afford bureaucratic drag. Efficiency and speed are essential, given that the Redzikowo site, part of the broader NATO “Aegis Ashore” missile shield, underscores a joint American-Polish resolve to deter aggression.

Alongside acquisitions, Poland must maintain and repair these assets efficiently. Yet ITAR regulations currently prevent Poland from quickly establishing critical repair hubs like the planned Regional Sustainment Center at Powidz. Both U.S. and allied forces depend on such a facility for vehicle and equipment upkeep. Amid the Ukraine conflict, the fragile nature of Western defense production has been laid bare. Promptly integrating Poland into a more flexible ITAR framework would strengthen alliances, secure supply chains, and enhance readiness, a strategy known as production diplomacy.

A Win Win for the US

No one questions America’s right to protect its cutting-edge arms exports from falling into hostile hands. But a carefully tailored relaxation of ITAR for Poland is sensible. Consider the precedent: Australia and Britain enjoy special ITAR carve-outs via the AUKUS Agreement. With Poland’s unique proximity to Russia and urgent needs, a similar arrangement could be justified. The Trump team might revise statutes, offer fast-track waivers, and prioritize certain systems such as M1 Abrams co-production and sustainment. As Poland invests heavily in American technology, it’s simply prudent to allow them to maintain these platforms locally, rather than ship broken engines and parts back across the Atlantic.

The U.S. Defense Department would, of course, impose safeguards, ensuring sensitive tech like armor, electronic warfare, night vision, remains secure. But exceptions for Poland need not compromise core American interests. Executive orders, successfully employed for other policy issues in Trump’s first term, could now drive flexible defense trade solutions. Another route might be a new mutual defense framework, granting Poland accelerated technology transfers and quick deliveries.

The Need for Action: Securing NATO’s Eastern Flank

As the U.S. eyes the Indo-Pacific and grapples with an emboldened China, Western cohesion in Europe remains vital. Poland, leading the pack in defense spending and hosting a major American presence, is stepping up to deter Russian aggression. For the United States, the logical response is to cut through the cumbersome ITAR red tape and keep Poland’s modernization on track. This not only secures American interests but also sustains the unity and effectiveness of a NATO alliance that must remain ready and formidable in a more dangerous world.

Dominik Andrzejczuk

Polish American Venture Capitalist