UK and Poland Deepen Air and Missile Defence Ties

Overview

• British and Polish forces will expand virtual exercises under the UK-led DIAMOND initiative to improve integrated air-defence coordination.
• From this summer, eight Polish helicopter pilots will train in the UK through NATO Flight Training Europe, supported by two Polish instructors based at RAF Shawbury for a full rotational tour.
• Helicopter training at RAF Shawbury will include advanced preparation for future attack-aviation roles.
• Both governments will explore joint development and procurement of new air and missile-defence capabilities and seek ways to boost manufacturing capacity in Europe.
• The announcement followed talks at Downing Street as officials highlighted ongoing cooperation, including joint Eastern Sentry air policing and the deployment of more than 350 UK personnel in Poland.