Poland is gearing up to start negotiations with Lockheed Martin for more than 100 HIMARS multiple-launch rocket systems, a move signaling the country’s strengthening commitment to defense amid regional tensions.
General Artur Kuptel, head of Poland’s Armament Agency, confirmed that the discussions on the first contract for the HOMAR-A system—a Polish designation for the HIMARS—will begin soon. Under a pre-existing framework agreement, Poland has the option to purchase up to 486 HIMARS systems, with this initial order being a substantial first step.
This move comes as part of Poland’s broader defense strategy. The government has allocated a significant portion of its budget to defense, with plans to spend 4.1% of GDP on military expenses in 2024—the highest among NATO members—and hopes to boost that figure to 4.7% by 2025.
Critics from Poland’s previous administration have argued that the current ruling coalition, in power since December 2023, has dragged its feet on arms deals and questioned the government’s intentions regarding prior agreements, particularly in light of increased security concerns since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Poland’s commitment to acquiring HIMARS units is part of a larger plan to diversify its defense partnerships and capabilities. Before finalizing the HIMARS purchase, Kuptel noted that Poland would first conclude a related negotiation with South Korea for a similar missile system. In April, Poland also signed a contract for 72 K239 Chunmoo missile systems from South Korea, with initial deliveries slated for 2026.
This parallel strategy reflects Poland’s aim to expand both its artillery assets and its manufacturing capabilities domestically. For example, ammunition production for these missile systems will be established locally through collaboration between Polish defense firm WB and South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace, enhancing Poland’s self-sufficiency in armaments.
While Kuptel did not provide specific timelines for the HIMARS deliveries, he highlighted Poland’s aspiration to produce a range of weaponry, from small-caliber bullets to larger artillery systems, within its own borders. However, logistical and production challenges remain. He did not confirm if US priorities in supplying Ukraine might affect delivery schedules, acknowledging the complex dynamics around arms deliveries in the current geopolitical climate.
Poland’s Armament Agency has been busy this year, securing around 100 contracts to date, with expectations to finalize several dozen more by year-end. This proactive procurement approach underscores Poland’s intent to rapidly modernize its military assets and align with advanced systems like HIMARS.
The HIMARS [High Mobility Artillery Rocket System] is a modular, mobile artillery system developed for the US military and praised for its adaptability in high-stakes combat situations. Known for its versatility, HIMARS excels in targeting critical enemy assets such as radar systems, command centers, armored units, and other strategic points. Mounted on a 6×6 light truck chassis, it is engineered to handle diverse terrains and swiftly reach tactical positions, combining high speed with substantial firepower.
HIMARS systems are compatible with a range of missiles, including the GPS-guided M31 GMLRS rockets, which have a reach of up to 80 kilometers, and the longer-range ATACMS missiles, capable of striking targets up to 300 kilometers away. The GMLRS missiles’ precision makes them suitable for minimizing collateral damage, a feature valued in densely populated or environmentally sensitive areas.
Each HIMARS unit can carry either a pod of six GMLRS missiles or a single ATACMS missile, offering operators flexibility based on mission requirements. The system’s speed and efficiency extend to its reload and firing capabilities: unlike bulkier artillery, HIMARS can be ready to launch within minutes and relocate immediately after firing, minimizing the risk of enemy counterfire. This agility is especially valuable in modern warfare, where rapid movements and quick strikes are often decisive.
A major asset of HIMARS is its ability to integrate into network-centric warfare environments, receiving real-time target information from various sources such as drones, aircraft, and intelligence units. This connectivity enables operators to respond instantly to changing conditions on the battlefield, coordinating with other weapon systems for synchronized, high-precision assaults. Such interoperability makes HIMARS an integral part of contemporary combat strategies, enhancing its effectiveness as part of allied and coalition forces.
Widely adopted by the US military, HIMARS has proven valuable to several NATO allies and other nations around the world. Its success in diverse and challenging combat zones has made it a sought-after asset, reinforcing its role in the arsenals of countries facing complex security environments. As Poland looks to bolster its defense capacity, the HIMARS system represents not only a strategic acquisition but also a commitment to modernizing its military forces and contributing more robustly to regional and global security frameworks.
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