Polish military experts urge systemic reforms to match record defense spending

Polish military analysts and think tanks are calling for deep structural and procurement reforms to ensure record defense spending translates into genuine combat readiness. Poland’s defense budget is projected to reach 200.1 billion PLN by 2026, or 4.81 percent of GDP, funding major equipment purchases such as F-35 aircraft, tanks, and HIMARS missile systems.

However, defense experts warn that massive hardware investments risk being undermined by institutional bottlenecks, recruitment issues, and inefficient procurement mechanisms. Reports from organizations including Rozwój Plus emphasize that effective deterrence against Russian aggression requires streamlined command structures, improved mobilization systems, and stronger domestic industrial integration alongside weapon acquisitions.

Sources: Defence24, Portal obronny, Rzeczpospolita, TVP info