Autor: Rafał Lipka & Sebastian Czub

Pulaski Policy Paper, no. 14, 19th of November 2024

Should Poland invest in its submarine fleet? — The Casimir Pulaski Foundation on the role of submarines in enhancing maritime security in the Baltic Sea region

The future growth of the Polish economy is closely tied to Baltic trade, which has recently become critical for Poland’s supply of fossil fuels, raw materials, and armaments. Although the Baltic Sea generates significant financial benefits for the state treasury and the broader economy, Poland has neglected the development of its Navy over the past two decades. This neglect is particularly evident in the state of Poland’s submarine fleet, which currently consists of only one submarine—ORP Orzeł, a nearly 40-year-old Kilo-class vessel. This underscores the urgent need for a debate on the procurement of new submarines, without which Poland will remain dependent on other NATO allies and their capabilities in this critical domain. This is the main finding of a new policy paper released by the Casimir Pulaski Foundation, entitled Silent Guardians. Part 1: The Role of Submarines in Enhancing Maritime Security in the Baltic Sea Region.

Given the growing risks posed by the potential for a full-scale military conflict on NATO’s Eastern Flank and hybrid threats, maintaining a fleet of submarines is strategically vital to Poland’s maritime security. Poland should pursue the acquisition of new submarines to enhance its deterrence and power projection capabilities, defend national interests, and secure critical infrastructure. A decision to acquire new submarines for Poland should be made as soon as possible, considering the lengthy timeline for potential deliveries. Further delays in the procurement of submarines could jeopardize the continuity of crucial naval capabilities, particularly given the time required for training the submarine crew and other officers responsible for planning operations.

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