The signing of the UK–Poland Security and Defence Partnership Treaty on 27 May marks an important milestone in strengthening the strategic alliance between Poland and the United Kingdom which have longstanding ties in defending European security.
With heightened activity in the security environment, it highlights the need for strong NATO cooperation and deeper, long-term partnerships with frontline states and major defence contributors. In this context, the treaty sets out an ambitious framework spanning foreign and security policy, defence, national security, economic resilience, and energy security, and reaffirms a mutual commitment to collective defence.
Babcock is already supporting this partnership in practice, as the platform design provider and technology partner for Poland’s Miecznik frigate programme, working closely with the Polish defence industry. We have also signed an MOU with WZL 1 to develop a joint sustainment and support centre for the Polish Armed Forces’ helicopter fleet, alongside a technical training centre designed to enhance operational readiness and long-term capabilities.
As the two countries deepen collaboration programmes like Miecznik are supported not only by Babcock’s frigate design and build licences but also through technology and knowledge transfer, academic partnerships, graduate programmes and the exchange of personnel to help develop the next generation of engineering talent across borders. These activities demonstrate how industry can support defence procurement, and also contribute to economic strength, skills development, social resilience, technological development and long-term security.
Babcock remains committed to supporting this strengthened partnership, working alongside Polish partners to deliver its sovereign defence capabilities across land, sea and air.