Poland ramps up support for US forces, reinforcing NATO’s eastern flank

Poland’s expenditures on maintaining and supporting the US military presence on its territory are expected to rise significantly, potentially doubling in the coming year.

The increase reflects Warsaw’s ongoing commitment to deepening defence cooperation with the United States and strengthening NATO’s eastern flank, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

Journalists from the Polish defence outlet highlighted that spending on infrastructure and logistical support for US forces has been growing steadily. In 2023, the Polish government allocated approximately $274.5 million for such efforts. That figure is projected to surge, with some estimates indicating that total costs could approach half a billion dollars—equivalent to over 1.8 billion Polish zlotys—in the near term.

One of the largest upcoming investments involves the US military installation in Powidz, which hosts a key component of America’s missile defence system. By 2026, Poland is expected to spend over $290 million on the construction of new barracks and a dining facility at the site. Substantial funding is also earmarked for improvements to other locations hosting US troops, including Wrocław, Drawsko Pomorskie, and Łask.

These developments come in the context of the Enhanced Defence Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), signed between Warsaw and Washington in 2020. Under the terms of the agreement, Poland committed to sharing the financial burden of maintaining the US military footprint within its borders, as well as to expanding the infrastructure available to American forces stationed in the country.

While the increased spending has drawn domestic scrutiny, Polish officials view the investment as a strategic necessity—one that reinforces Poland’s role as a frontline NATO ally and enhances deterrence against potential regional threats.

By Vafa Guliyeva