Polish military aid to Ukraine reaches 3 billion euros
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The extensive aid packages encompass various military assets and equipment, including Leopard 2A4 battle tanks and MiG-29 jets, as well as substantial quantities of munitions, spares, and vehicles.
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A Polish AHS Krab howitzer takes part in a military exercise at the training range in Torun, February 23, 2023 (AFP)
The Polish Ministry of Defense has recently revealed that military aid to Ukraine has amounted to a grand total of $3 billion, Defence 24 reported.
Military aid from Poland to Ukraine has significantly increased over the past few months, demonstrating the continued commitment of Poland to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities.
The extensive aid packages encompass various military assets and equipment, including the transfer of Leopard 2A4 main battle tanks and several MiG-29 jets, which were delivered earlier this year.
Moreover, the support also includes a diverse range of military inventory such as Piorun MANPADS (mon portable air defense systems), Grot rifles, T-72M/M1/M1ER main battle tanks, 54 Krab howitzers, Osa and Newa SAMs (surface to air missiles), as well as substantial quantities of munitions, spares, and vehicles.
Recent reports from The Wall Street Journal suggest that Poland may have also transferred its Mi-24 helicopters to support Ukraine's military operations.
Despite the detailed breakdown of the aid, the Polish Ministry of Defense maintains the confidentiality of specific information regarding the aid sent to Ukraine.
Read more: Poland may end up 'joining' Ukraine war: Polish Ambassador to France
Among the key questions remaining unanswered is the number of Rosomak APCs (Armored Personnel Carriers) transferred to Ukraine. Earlier in the year, Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki announced the plan to deliver 100 such vehicles, followed by subsequent announcements of 150 vehicles and 24 Rak mortars, and an additional 200 Rosomak APCs in two separate lots.
The aid to Ukraine has come at a cost, temporarily affecting certain capabilities in the Polish Armed Forces, the report by Defense 24 highlights. While agreements have been signed to recover these capabilities, such as main battle tanks, self-propelled howitzers, and Piorun MANPADS, their implementation may take several years.
Additional contracts are also being prepared for areas like infantry fighting vehicles, which, though providing enhanced combat capabilities, also come with higher costs. To some extent, the financial burden of aid provision is being alleviated through financing provided by the European Union and the United States. Nevertheless, it remains a significant effort for the Polish budget, justified in the current geopolitical context and reflecting Poland's commitment to regional security and stability.
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