Korea-Poland deepen defense ties amid global tensions

Apr 14, 2026, 08:28 am

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President Lee Jae-myung speaks during an expanded summit with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk at the presidential office on April 13. / Yonhap News

South Korea and Poland agreed to deepen defense and economic cooperation, positioning Poland as a key hub for Korean defense industries in Europe following a summit between President Lee Jae-myung and Prime Minister Donald Tusk on April 13.

The meeting was widely seen as a step toward advancing Seoul’s ambition to become one of the world’s top four defense exporters. Both countries are expected to expand cooperation beyond arms deals into advanced industries, supply chains, and local production partnerships.

According to the presidential office, the two leaders agreed to upgrade bilateral ties to a “comprehensive strategic partnership” after discussing defense, economic, and security cooperation.

Defense collaboration was the central focus of the summit. In a joint press briefing, Lee said, “Both countries agreed that stabilizing global supply chains is crucial in responding to the crisis triggered by the Middle East conflict,” adding that they would continue working together to that end.

South Korea and Poland have steadily expanded cooperation since signing a $44.2 billion framework agreement in 2022. The partnership includes major systems such as the K2 main battle tank, K9 self-propelled howitzer, and FA-50 light attack aircraft. A second contract for K2 tanks last year further strengthened cooperation, including local production and technology transfer.

Efforts to localize defense production are also gaining momentum. Hanwha Aerospace is moving forward with a joint venture with Poland’s WB Group to produce Chunmoo multiple rocket launch systems locally.

Poland’s accelerated military modernization following the Russia-Ukraine war has further reinforced defense ties between the two nations. The cooperation is also expected to expand into industries such as batteries, materials, and energy security. LG Energy Solution plans to supply energy storage system (ESS) batteries to Poland’s state-run utility PGE between 2026 and 2027.

There is also growing speculation that Poland could consider introducing the KF-21 Boramae, a next-generation supersonic fighter jet developed by South Korea. If realized, cooperation could expand from ground systems to air power, significantly upgrading the level of bilateral defense ties.

However, experts note that exports of the KF-21 may face challenges due to reliance on certain foreign components. “Some key parts and technologies depend on overseas suppliers, making export approvals a critical factor,” an industry official said. “Since the aircraft includes major components such as U.S.-made engines, approval processes could affect the pace of the project.”

#Korea #Poland #defense cooperation #K-defense #KF-21