UK and Poland Deepen Air and Missile Defense Ties Under NATO Framework

Overview

• The agreement was announced at a Downing Street meeting between Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Polish President Karol Nawrocki, according to the UK Ministry of Defence.
• Beginning this summer, eight Polish military helicopter pilots will train in the UK under NATO Flight Training Europe, supported by two Polish instructors based at RAF Shawbury for a full rotational tour.
• Both militaries will expand virtual and synthetic exercises to improve air-defence coordination while reducing the cost and risk associated with live-fire drills.
• Work on future capabilities will proceed within the UK‑led DIAMOND initiative, exploring joint development, procurement, and ways to boost European manufacturing capacity.
• The move builds on NATO’s Eastern Sentry operations and existing UK deployments in Poland, with Defence Secretary John Healey describing Poland as a crucial ally in countering threats from Russia.