IRIA News

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Poland has signed an agreement with the U.S. to procure more than 200 AGM-88G Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile-Extended Range (AARGM-ER) systems. The $745 million deal aims to enhance the Polish Air Force’s ability to neutralize enemy radar and missile defense systems, marking a major step in the country’s defense modernization efforts.

The purchase follows the U.S. State Department’s approval of the sale in April 2023. Under the agreement, deliveries of the advanced anti-radiation missiles will begin in 2029 and continue through 2035. The AGM-88G AARGM-ER is a next-generation weapon system designed to destroy enemy air defense radars from a distance exceeding 200 kilometers.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz hailed the agreement as a transformative step for Poland’s military capabilities. “This is a breakthrough purchase,” Kosiniak-Kamysz said after signing the deal. He emphasized that the missiles would be critical in maximizing the combat effectiveness of Poland’s F-35 and F-16 fighter jets.

“Only in such a case, when we have fully equipped F-35 aircraft, with the possibility of also adapting them to F-16 aircraft, are we able to effectively use all the capabilities of these most modern machines,” he continued.

Kosiniak-Kamysz stressed that advanced aircraft alone are not enough to guarantee air superiority. “Today’s agreement is a huge progress in the field of operational capabilities, using the full potential of the Polish Air Force, using the F-35 aircraft in the way it should be done, because an aircraft without appropriate weapons, even the best one, does not constitute an advantage, does not constitute strength and effectiveness.”

AGM-88G AARGM-ER

The AGM-88G AARGM-ER is the latest evolution of the AGM-88 missile series. Developed by Northrop Grumman, it combines the advanced sensors, electronics, and digital modeling of the AGM-88E2 with a newly designed airframe and propulsion system for significantly enhanced range and performance.

The missile features a dual-pulse solid rocket motor that doubles the range of its predecessor, allowing it to engage enemy targets from over 200 kilometers away. It is equipped with an advanced warhead optimized for greater lethality against radar systems, ensuring effective suppression of enemy air defenses.

Additionally, its multi-mode seeker utilizes advanced guidance technology to track and neutralize enemy air defense radars with high precision, making it a critical asset for modern air combat operations.

The AARGM-ER is compatible with both external and internal carriage on the F-35A/C models and will also be integrated with the F-16 in the future. The Polish Air Force operates both aircraft, making the missile a crucial addition to its arsenal.

Strategic implications for Poland and NATO

Poland’s investment in advanced weaponry comes at a time of heightened security concerns in Europe. As a NATO member, the country has been actively strengthening its defense capabilities, particularly in response to Russia’s military aggression in Ukraine and broader regional tensions.

By equipping its F-35 and F-16 jets with the AGM-88G AARGM-ER, Poland is significantly improving its ability to conduct Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) missions. This capability is essential for modern air warfare, allowing Polish forces to neutralize hostile radar systems and missile defenses before launching further air operations.

The deal also underscores the growing military partnership between Poland and the United States. Over the past few years, Poland has significantly increased its defense spending and procured advanced U.S.-made systems, including F-35 fighter jets, M1 Abrams tanks, HIMARS rocket systems, and Patriot missile defense batteries.

The procurement of AGM-88G AARGM-ER missiles represents a major leap forward for Poland’s air force and its role within NATO. As deliveries begin in 2029, the integration of these missiles into Poland’s existing fleet of F-35 and F-16 jets will ensure the country remains well-equipped to counter modern threats. With this purchase, Poland is not only strengthening its national defense but also reinforcing its commitment to collective security within the NATO alliance.