Poland unveils first warship under major naval modernisation programme
"Poland is becoming a maritime power in the Baltic Sea," declared Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
Poland has unveiled its first frigate, OSW Wicher, as part of a 15 billion zloty modernisation program for the country's navy. The ship, constructed in the Baltic Sea port of Gdynia, marks a significant milestone in Poland's naval development and enhances NATO's maritime defenses. Prime Minister Donald Tusk, along with President Karol Nawrocki, attended the naming ceremony, highlighting a rare display of unity between the two leaders.
The ORP Wicher, a medium-sized warship designed for escort, air defence, and fleet protection duties, is the first of three multi-role frigates based on Britain's Arrowhead 140 design. The three frigates are expected to replace Poland's aging Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigates, which were constructed in the 1970s. The modernisation project aims to strengthen Poland's surface fleet and bolster the Polish shipbuilding industry, while also supporting NATO's maritime capabilities.
Written by urgent.news from Notes from Poland's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
