Polish experts press for structural reform as defense spending surges

Polish defense analysts are warning that historic increases in military expenditure—projected to reach 4.81 percent of GDP by 2026—will fall short without fundamental institutional reforms. Proposals from organizations such as the Defence Institute and the Rozwój Plus initiative argue that major hardware acquisitions, including F-35 fighters, Abrams tanks, and HIMARS systems, must be paired with overhauled command structures and streamlined procurement models.

Experts emphasize that building credible deterrence against potential aggression from Russia requires shifting focus from equipment totals to sustained mobilization capacity and operational efficiency. Observers stress that transforming multi-billion-zloty budgets into genuine warfighting capability demands an updated acquisition framework capable of supporting long-term force readiness.

Sources: Defence24, Portal obronny, Rzeczpospolita, TVP info