Defence market in Poland

Poland is undergoing Europe’s most ambitious military modernization since the Cold War. It’s one of the EU’s most lucrative but challenging defence markets.

Canadian firms can succeed by localizing operations, forming trusted partnerships, and aligning with Polish priorities. Success in this sector demands long-term commitment and “Polonization”, a deeply held belief that Poland must build domestic capabilities for its survival, not just political optics.

Key opportunities for Canadian Defence companies in Poland

  • Land: Subsystems and core components
  • Aerospace: Major platforms (including surveillance) and subsystems
  • Maritime: Demand for integrated ship systems and design capabilities
  • Training and simulation: Live, virtual, constructive systems and NATO-standard solutions
  • C4ISR and cyber: MILSATCOM, electronic warfare, and secured communications

Industry highlights

4.7% of GDP — Poland’s defence budget will reach 187 billion PLN (CAD $70B) in 2025, representing the highest share of GDP among NATO members.

300,000 personnel — Poland, which currently has the largest military in the EU with 216,000 personnel, plans to grow its forces to 300,000.

5% of GDP — Expected defence spending by 2026, with long-term investments planned through 2039.

$52 million — The value of Canadian defence exports to Poland in 2024, making it Canada’s 8th largest export market globally and 2nd largest in the EU.

Notable challenges for Canadian defence companies in Poland

  • Complex procurement laws and opaque approval processes
  • Access barriers to uniformed services and state-owned enterprises
  • Underestimating Poland’s defence industrial capabilities, especially in UAVs
  • Polonization requirements:
    • Local production
    • Tech transfer
    • Reciprocal partnerships

Keys to success in Poland’s defence market

Keys to success in Poland’s defence market can be defined by the three “p’s”;

  • Presence: As one of Europe’s largest defence markets, Poland expects in-country engagement. Attend trade shows like MSPO and other events listed on the TCS event page.
  • Polonization: Similar to Canada’s Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) Policy, Poland wants its industry to benefit from defence procurements. This includes technology transfer, local production, and partnerships. Always ask, “how can I make my solution more Polish?”.
  • Persistence: Procurement is slow and bureaucratic. Companies that maintain a consistent presence and follow-up build trust and win contracts. Relationship-building takes time, but it’s essential.

Look beyond the Armed Forces

Special Forces, border services, and police have independent budgets and fewer barriers. The “Eastern Shield” initiative, which aims to reinforce Poland’s borders along its Eastern flank (where it borders Belarus, Russia and Ukraine) presents a major opportunity.

Contact: James Allan, Trade Commissioner, Embassy of Canada to Poland, james.allan@international.gc.ca - defence.

Additional Information

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