Polish-American (maritime) cooperation: strategic partnership in the Baltic and beyond

Polish-American maritime cooperation is one of the key pillars of their strategic relations. Given the rising geopolitical tensions, particularly on NATO’s eastern flank and threats to the freedom of navigation in the Baltic Sea, this partnership is gaining increasing importance. It encompasses military, economic, and energy aspects, contributing to regional stability.

Sekretarz obrony USA Pete Hegseth | fot. X

Maritime security and military cooperation

Naval military cooperation is one of the most visible aspects of Polish-American relations. The Polish Navy regularly participates in exercises organized by NATO and U.S. armed forces, such as “Baltops” and “Sea Breeze.” These maneuvers are crucial for ensuring interoperability of armed forces and maintaining deterrence capabilities against potential threats, especially from Russia.

The U.S. supports Poland in modernizing its Navy, including the supply of modern weaponry and technology transfers. Examples include the purchase of American Naval Strike Missile (NSM) systems and the planned acquisition of Miecznik-class frigates, which will be equipped with Western weapon and electronic systems.

Polish Minister of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz emphasized the importance of international cooperation, stating: “an intense week of international cooperation. Now on the way to Brussels for the NATO defense ministers’ meeting and the first meeting with U.S. Secretary of Defense US Pete Hegseth.” His words highlight the growing dynamism of Polish-American relations and their critical role in regional security.

Enhanced defense cooperation

Poland is one of the first countries to be visited by the new U.S. Secretary of Defense. Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz emphasized the significance of this event.

– This is a sign of the strong partnership between Poland and the U.S. I eagerly await this visit and the fruitful discussions ahead!” the minister stated.

According to the Pentagon, the U.S. Secretary of Defense “will meet with Polish leaders to discuss our strong bilateral defense cooperation, continued deterrence efforts on NATO’s eastern flank, and Poland’s leadership as a model ally in defense investments and burden-sharing within NATO.” This highlights Poland’s role as a key partner within the North Atlantic Alliance.

A crucial moment in Polish-American relations was the signing of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement between Poland and the U.S. on August 15, 2020, in the presence of Polish President Andrzej Duda. The President emphasized that this agreement represents a tangible reinforcement of Poland’s security and expressed hope that it would also translate into other areas of cooperation, including economic collaboration.

– More security means more confidence in investment, more opportunities for economic growth, Andrzej Duda underscored.

Economic and energy cooperation

Beyond military aspects, economic and energy collaboration is another crucial area of Polish-American partnership. A key component in this field is LNG infrastructure, enabling Poland to import American liquefied natural gas. The Świnoujście terminal and the planned floating terminal in Gdańsk are vital assets in energy cooperation, allowing for diversification of supply sources and reducing dependence on Russian gas.

Additionally, the development and modernization of seaports to meet increasing trade demands are significant. American technological support and investments contribute to infrastructure modernization, enhancing Poland’s ability to compete in the global transport market.

The future of cooperation and its regional impact

Faced with growing geopolitical challenges and shifts in global power dynamics, Polish-American maritime cooperation has the potential for further expansion. In addition to continuing existing projects, there is room for increased collaboration in maritime cybersecurity, critical infrastructure protection, and joint research and development of military technologies.

In the long-term, this partnership strengthens Poland’s position as a key player in the Baltic and reinforces U.S. engagement in the region. This not only enhances security measures but also creates new economic opportunities, bolstering stability and development across Central and Eastern Europe.

Pete Hegseth in Poland. A signal of a new era in NATO?

The visit of Pete Hegseth, the incumbent 29th U.S. Secretary of Defense, could have significant political implications. His presence in Poland is not only an opportunity for meetings with conservative circles but also a signal regarding Polish-American relations in the context of security and geopolitics.

Pete Hegseth, known for his firm views on patriotism, the military, and national values, will undoubtedly focus on issues related to NATO and Poland’s role in the region.

During the NATO meeting in Brussels, he stated: “our commitment is clear: NATO must become a stronger, more lethal force – not a diplomatic club. It is time for allies to rise to the occasion.” His statements are expected to emphasize the importance of a strong alliance with the U.S. and the need to strengthen the defense capabilities of Central and Eastern Europe. At the same time, he noted that Ukraine’s NATO membership is “unrealistic,” although a peace agreement remains possible, and the U.S. does not intend to send its troops to Ukraine.

His visit can be seen as part of a broader political strategy in which Poland is taking on an increasingly significant role in the context of global tensions and transformations. Strengthening cooperation with the U.S., particularly in the field of defense, could translate into concrete decisions regarding the presence of American troops, technology transfer, and further military support for the region.

During his meetings in Poland, Pete Hegseth is likely to discuss regional security issues and further strengthening the defense capabilities of Central and Eastern Europe. His tour also included Germany, where he met with American soldiers stationed as part of the NATO mission.

In the context of current geopolitical challenges, Pete Hegseth’s visit to Poland may lead to concrete decisions regarding the future of defense cooperation between Poland and the United States.

Prepared by: Kamil Kusier