The Polish Ministry of Defence has announced plans to procure 96 Boeing AH-64E Apache attack helicopters as part of efforts to modernise its armed forces.

The move is part of Poland’s Kruk programme that aims to acquire a new attack helicopter fleet.

It was disclosed by Polish Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence Mariusz Błaszczak during a bilateral meeting with US Defense Secretary Lloyd J Austin.

According to Błaszczak, Poland has submitted a request for a proposal for the Apache helicopters.   

Błaszczak said: “These helicopters work great with Abrams tanks. Together, they [have] enormous strength.”

In a statement, Boeing said: “Boeing is honoured the Government of Poland has selected the AH-64E Apache for the Polish Armed Forces’ new attack helicopter fleet.

“An Apache selection strengthens US-Polish military ties by enhancing interoperability and cooperation between Poland, the US Army, and Nato nations.”

Earlier this year, Poland signed an agreement to procure 250 Abrams M1A2 SEPv3 main battle tanks from the US.

In the latest meeting, Błaszczak and Austin also discussed their collaboration with regard to the presence of US troops in Poland and further activities to support the Armed Forces of Ukraine, including training.

Błaszczak said: “The situation is that the Ukrainian army has launched a counter-offensive and is moving forward. Simply put, it is a long process and requires the support of the free world.”

“After Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, as an expression of our solidarity with that country, we provide free military aid from the resources of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Poland.”

So far, Poland has committed $1.7bn in military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine.