Defense & Military
MSPO 2025 Highlights Poland Defense Spending and Military Modernization
MSPO 2025 showcased Poland’s record defense budget, Boeing’s F-15EX and MQ-28, and key domestic contracts advancing military modernization.
MSPO 2025 Defense Expo: Poland’s Strategic Military Modernization and Global Defense Industry Convergence
The 33rd International Defence Industry Exhibition (MSPO), held in Kielce, Poland from September 2-5, 2025, marked a pivotal moment in European defense cooperation and military modernization. Against the backdrop of heightened geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe, Poland’s record-breaking defense spending, amounting to 4.7% of GDP or approximately $48.7 billion in 2025, has positioned the country as a central hub for NATO’s eastern defense strategy. The expo brought together 811 exhibitors from 35 countries and delegations from 45 states, highlighting Poland’s growing influence in shaping regional security and attracting major international defense contractors.
Boeing’s unveiling of the enhanced F-15EX Eagle II, paired with the MQ-28 Ghost Bat drone, was among the expo’s most significant developments, directly addressing Poland’s requirements for “affordable mass” in airpower. This article explores the expo’s broader context, technological highlights, and the implications of Poland’s ambitious military modernization program for both national and alliance security.
Poland’s Defense Transformation and Strategic Context
Poland’s military expansion is one of the most significant in post-Cold War Europe, fundamentally altering the strategic landscape of NATO’s eastern flank. The country’s defense budget is set to reach 4.8% of GDP in 2026, the highest in NATO, driven largely by security concerns following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. This shift is not only a reaction to immediate threats but also a strategic restructuring of national priorities, as reflected in the 2026 budget’s allocation of 200 billion zloty (about $47 billion) for defense.
Poland’s geographical position, bordering Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine, places it at the forefront of regional instability. The government’s response has been to prioritize rapid military modernization and domestic defense manufacturing, with entities like Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa (PGZ) playing a central role. This push is further motivated by the need to address supply-chain vulnerabilities exposed by the Ukraine conflict, ensuring operational autonomy in crisis situations.
While European and Canadian defense spending collectively increased to 2.02% of GDP in 2024, Poland’s commitment far exceeds these averages. Only Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania approach similar spending levels within NATO, underscoring shared concerns along the alliance’s eastern frontier.
Historical and Geopolitical Drivers
Poland’s defense posture is shaped by historical experiences and contemporary security imperatives. Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s assertion that “we will defend [the border] with a modern, large army” captures the urgency and scale of the effort. The shift from 1.66% of GDP on defense in 2022 to nearly 5% by 2026 illustrates a dramatic reprioritization in response to external threats.
Domestic manufacturing is central to the strategy, aiming to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. This approach is informed by the lessons of Ukraine, where delayed or interrupted foreign deliveries had direct operational impacts. PGZ’s expanding capabilities are thus both a military and economic asset.
Poland’s emphasis on NATO interoperability ensures that its investments enhance alliance-wide security, not just national defense. The focus on standardization, such as NATO-compatible artillery, facilitates joint operations and logistics.
“We won’t defend the Polish border with a small deficit. We will defend it with a modern, large army.”, Prime Minister Donald Tusk
Financial Commitments and Defense Procurement
At MSPO 2025, Poland announced 7.46 billion PLN ($2.04 billion USD) in new defense contracts with domestic companies. The largest contract, worth 3.9 billion PLN, involves the PGZ-NAREW consortium delivering 46 PET/PCL Passive Location Radar-Systems. Additional contracts include 23,000 MSBS Grot assault rifles and modernization of radar stations, reflecting a broad-based upgrade across multiple domains.
These investments are part of a multi-year modernization effort, with the 2026 defense budget representing 4.8% of GDP, well above the NATO average. The government frames this spending as both a security and economic policy, supporting domestic industry and job creation.
Poland’s approach also includes significant research and development partnerships with academic institutions, such as the MSBS Grot rifle program developed with the Military University of Technology. This model integrates innovation, production, and operational deployment.
MSPO 2025: Exhibition Overview and Key Highlights
The MSPO 2025 expo was the largest in its history, with 811 exhibitors from 35 countries and delegations from 45 states. Held at Targi Kielce, the event covered 90,000 square meters across seven halls, providing a platform for technology demonstrations, strategic discussions, and international cooperation.
Major defense contractors, including Airbus Helicopters, Leonardo, Thales, Raytheon, and Lockheed Martin, used the expo to showcase new technologies and forge strategic partnerships. The program featured over 45 conferences and seminars on emerging threats, lessons from the Ukraine conflict, and NATO interoperability.
Attendance and participation figures underscore the expo’s growing importance. The 2024 edition drew over 34,000 visitors and 625 exhibitors, while the 2025 event’s expansion reflects increasing international interest in Poland as both a market and a manufacturing hub.
Boeing’s F-15EX and MQ-28 Ghost Bat Initiative
Boeing’s presence at MSPO 2025 was marked by the introduction of the F-15EX Eagle II fighter, paired with the MQ-28 Ghost Bat drone. This “Team Eagle” offering, developed with BAE Systems, GE Aerospace, and Raytheon, addresses Poland’s need for cost-effective, scalable airpower. The F-15EX’s payload capacity of 30,000 pounds and the MQ-28’s 3,700 km range provide a potent combination for deterrence and multi-domain operations.
The MQ-28 Ghost Bat, developed by Boeing Defence Australia, has completed extensive test flights and is scheduled for air-to-air weapons testing within a year. Its ability to operate autonomously or in coordination with manned aircraft exemplifies the manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) trend shaping modern air forces.
Boeing’s proposal includes industrial cooperation and local production, aligning with Poland’s emphasis on domestic manufacturing. The Polish Ministry of National Defence is expected to issue a Letter of Request for the package by late 2025, reflecting the urgency of the modernization program.
“The F-15EX and MQ-28 Ghost Bat create an unbeatable team for Poland’s defense.”, Tim Flood, Boeing Senior Director of International Business Development
Technology Innovations and Military Systems
MSPO 2025 showcased a range of advanced military technologies across land, air, and maritime domains. Highlights included the debut of Poland’s Rosomak-L armored vehicle with the Turra 30 SA remote turret system, Ukraine’s 2S22 Bohdana self-propelled howitzer, and the Bluszcz unmanned mine-laying vehicle.
International innovations were also prominent, such as Hyundai WIA’s lightweight 105mm self-propelled howitzer and the Stormrider unmanned combat boat by WB Group. These systems reflect the shift toward automation, precision, and multi-domain integration in modern warfare.
Robotic ground systems, modular soldier equipment, and advanced radar and electronic warfare capabilities were also on display, illustrating the comprehensive modernization underway in Poland and its regional partners.
International Defense Cooperation and Industry Development
MSPO 2025 was a catalyst for new defense cooperation agreements. PGZ signed memoranda with Saab for multi-domain defense projects, Fincantieri for naval platform development, and Babcock International for naval construction and through-life support. These agreements aim to enhance both immediate capabilities and long-term industrial growth.
The event also highlighted the deepening relationship between Poland and Ukraine, with Ukrainian Armor securing contracts for ammunition production and logistics with Polish firms. Embraer’s debut at the expo signaled the growing presence of non-European companies, with the KC-390 Millennium aircraft positioned for the European market.
Domestic industry development was central to the expo. PGZ’s Borsuk Infantry Fighting Vehicle, new small arms, and unmanned systems reflect the maturation of Poland’s defense industrial base. Investments in automation, advanced materials, and research partnerships are positioning Poland as a regional leader in defense manufacturing.
Financial and Procurement Trends
Poland’s defense procurement strategy emphasizes domestic production and technology transfer. The $2.04 billion in contracts signed at MSPO 2025 covers a wide range of capabilities, from radars and rifles to naval training torpedoes. The government’s approach is to balance immediate operational needs with longer-term industrial development.
This strategy is reflected in contracts for the PET/PCL Passive Location Radar system, MSBS Grot rifles, and modernization of NUR-12ME radar stations. These investments are designed to enhance both military effectiveness and economic resilience.
Poland’s defense spending trajectory, rising from 1.66% of GDP in 2022 to 4.8% in 2026, underscores a sustained commitment to modernization and alliance interoperability.
Technological and Strategic Trends
Autonomous systems, precision engagement, and multi-domain integration were dominant themes at MSPO 2025. The rapid development of unmanned vehicles, advanced artillery, and electronic warfare capabilities reflects lessons learned from the Ukraine conflict and anticipates future operational requirements.
Artificial intelligence, modular design, and energy resilience are increasingly central to military effectiveness. Systems like the RAF1 autonomous mobile photovoltaic plant and AI-driven radar platforms illustrate the integration of civilian technology advances into defense applications.
The expo also highlighted the trend toward manned-unmanned teaming, with Boeing’s F-15EX/Ghost Bat combination serving as a model for future airpower. These innovations are shaping the next generation of military capabilities for Poland and its allies.
“Polish technological innovation, investment in the Polish economy, jobs, and everything we care about, namely, security combined with the economy.”, Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense
Conclusion
MSPO 2025 showcased Poland’s rapid transformation into a leading force in European defense, underpinned by record defense spending, robust industrial development, and deepening international partnerships. The expo’s scale and sophistication reflect both urgent security imperatives and a strategic vision for long-term resilience and alliance integration.
Boeing’s F-15EX/Ghost Bat proposal, the expansion of domestic manufacturing, and the adoption of next-generation technologies demonstrate how Poland is setting new standards for military modernization. As the country continues to invest in its defense sector, its role as a regional security anchor and a model for alliance-driven modernization will only grow in importance.
FAQ
Q: What is MSPO 2025 and why is it significant?
A: MSPO 2025 is the 33rd International Defence Industry Exhibition held in Kielce, Poland. It is significant due to Poland’s unprecedented defense spending, the scale of international participation, and the showcase of advanced military technologies and strategic partnerships.
Q: What were the major highlights from Boeing at MSPO 2025?
A: Boeing introduced the F-15EX Eagle II fighter paired with the MQ-28 Ghost Bat drone, offering Poland a cost-effective, scalable airpower solution with advanced manned-unmanned teaming capabilities.
Q: How is Poland’s defense spending changing?
A: Poland’s defense spending has increased dramatically, reaching 4.7% of GDP in 2025 and projected to hit 4.8% in 2026, the highest in NATO. This supports major procurement and domestic manufacturing initiatives.
Q: What role does domestic industry play in Poland’s defense strategy?
A: Domestic industry is central, with entities like PGZ leading indigenous production and technology development. The strategy aims to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers and build long-term economic resilience.
Q: What are the key technological trends highlighted at MSPO 2025?
A: Key trends include autonomous systems, precision engagement, multi-domain integration, artificial intelligence, modular design, and energy resilience, all reflecting lessons from recent conflicts and future military requirements.
Photo Credit: Boeing
Defense & Military
RCAF Accepts First Two CF-35A Fighters at Luke Air Force Base
Canada takes delivery of CF-35A fighters AR-1 and AR-2 at Luke AFB as its C$19B procurement program remains under review.
This is original reporting and analysis by AirPro News.
The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) officially accepted delivery of its first two Lockheed Martin CF-35A Lightning II stealth fighters at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona on October 22, 2026, marking the physical introduction of the fifth-generation platform into the Canadian military.
The handover of the aircraft, designated AR-1 and AR-2, proceeds even as the broader C$19 billion procurement program remains in political limbo. Following trade and diplomatic tensions with the United States, Prime Minister Mark Carney initiated a formal review of the 88-aircraft purchase in March 2025, leaving the ultimate size and composition of Canada’s future fighter fleet unconfirmed.
Initial training operations in Arizona
The first two CF-35As will remain stationed at Luke Air Force Base to support the initial training cadre of Canadian instructor pilots and maintainers. The Arizona installation serves as a primary international training hub for the F-35 platform, hosting multiple allied nations. According to the Department of National Defence (DND), a total of eight Canadian jets are planned to be based at the facility through 2026 and 2027.
The delivery occurred exactly one month after the first Canadian aircraft completed its maiden flight at Lockheed Martin’s production facility in Fort Worth, Texas, on September 23, 2026. In an official statement regarding the delivery, the RCAF noted that the arrival of the jets represents a foundational step, adding that the future of air and space power is built on more than equipment alone.
Procurement review and fleet uncertainty
Canada has been a partner in the Joint Strike Fighter program since 1997. After years of political debate and a reset of the procurement process, the Canadian government selected the F-35A in 2022 over the Saab Gripen E to replace its aging McDonnell Douglas CF-18 Hornet fleet. The CF-18 has been in service since the 1980s and is slated for retirement in the early 2030s. In January 2023, Ottawa finalized the agreement to purchase 88 F-35As.
The procurement trajectory shifted in March 2025 when Prime Minister Carney ordered a formal review of the acquisition. Currently, only 16 of the 88 jets are firmly committed and funded. Minister of National Defence David McGuinty confirmed the ongoing evaluation, stating that the question of the F-35 remains under review and that both he and the prime minister are highly engaged in the issue alongside the emerging Defence Investment Agency.
The government is actively evaluating the possibility of operating a mixed fighter fleet. This approach could integrate Saab Gripen E fighters alongside a smaller number of F-35s, reopening a competition that Saab had previously lost during the Future Fighter Capability Project selection.
Path to operational capability
Despite the political uncertainty surrounding the final fleet size, the RCAF continues to execute its transition plan for the funded aircraft. The first CF-35As are scheduled to arrive on Canadian soil at 4 Wing Cold Lake in Alberta in 2028.
The air force plans to declare Initial Operational Capability (IOC) for the CF-35A fleet between 2029 and 2030. This timeline aligns with the necessary infrastructure upgrades at Canadian bases and the completion of initial pilot and maintainer training in the United States.
AirPro News analysis
Canada’s ongoing review of the F-35 program is highly unusual for a Tier 3 partner at this late stage of procurement. While the physical delivery of AR-1 and AR-2 ensures the RCAF can begin building its fifth-generation institutional knowledge, the potential pivot to a mixed fleet introduces significant logistical and interoperability questions. Operating both the CF-35A and the Saab Gripen E would require maintaining two distinct supply chains, training pipelines, and maintenance infrastructures. We note that these dual-fleet requirements could potentially offset the initial acquisition savings of a split purchase, complicating the RCAF’s transition away from the CF-18 Hornet.
Photo Credit: Royal Canadian Air Force
Defense & Military
U.S. Army Validates AH-64E Apache Maritime Lifting Sling
The U.S. Army validated a lifting sling for the AH-64E Apache, enabling crane-based maritime loading with rotor blades folded.
The U.S. Army has successfully validated a prototype lifting sling for the Boeing AH-64E Apache, clearing the attack helicopter for crane-based maritime loading and unloading with its main rotor blades folded.
Announced on October 21, 2026, by the Apache Helicopter Project Office, the validation fulfills the final transportability requirement outlined in the aircraft’s Capability Production Document (CPD). The milestone significantly expands the Army’s expeditionary logistics options by reducing reliance on specialized port infrastructure.
Expanding maritime logistics capabilities
Prior to this validation, maritime deployment of the Apache fleet often depended on Roll-On/Roll-Off (RORO) vessels or specialized dock facilities equipped with ramps capable of supporting towed aircraft. The new sling, engineered by industry partner ASRC Federal, allows the AH-64E to be hoisted using standard harbor and shipboard cranes.
This Lift-On/Lift-Off (LOLO) capability mitigates transit bottlenecks and lowers vessel charter costs by opening access to a wider range of global seaports. The U.S. Army stated that the ability to load and unload the aircraft with its main rotor blades folded is a major milestone for expeditionary mobility.
Prototype validation and next steps
The validation exercise took place at Fort Hood, Texas, overseen by the Apache Project Management Transportability Team based at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama. During the testing, the team successfully demonstrated the safe hoisting of the AH-64E using the ASRC Federal prototype hardware.
Following the exercise, the test team identified minor adjustments required before full production. These modifications include the addition of protective padding to prevent the hoisting cable from contacting the main rotor blades during lifting operations. Once these adjustments are validated, ASRC Federal will manufacture and deliver five contracted production prototypes to the U.S. Army.
The AH-64E Apache global footprint
Manufactured by The Boeing Company, the AH-64 Apache has served as the primary attack helicopters for the U.S. Army since 1984. The AH-64E is the latest variant, featuring upgraded sensors, software, and weapons performance. The U.S. Army is currently modernizing its fleet to the AH-64E Version 6.5 standard while gradually retiring older AH-64D models.
The global Apache fleet consists of more than 1,280 aircraft operating across 19 defense forces. In March 2023, Boeing reported the U.S. Army fleet had surpassed 5 million total flight hours.
International demand for the platform remains active. On August 11, 2026, Boeing signed offset agreements with Polish industry partners to build a long-term sustainment infrastructure supporting Poland’s incoming fleet of 96 AH-64E helicopters.
AirPro News analysis
The shift from RORO dependency to LOLO capability represents a critical logistical upgrade for U.S. Army aviation. As military planners focus on distributed operations and expeditionary mobility, the ability to utilize commercial container ports and standard maritime cranes reduces reliance on specialized military sealift vessels. This transportability milestone ensures the AH-64E can be deployed more rapidly and flexibly in contested or infrastructure-limited theaters.
Photo Credit: United States Army – Courtesy
Defense & Military
GA-ASI and Spirit Defense Partner on FQ-42 Vengeance CCA
GA-ASI and Spirit Defense team up to manufacture the FQ-42 Vengeance airframe as the USAF targets 500 CCAs by 2032.
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) and Spirit Defense have formed a strategic partnership to manufacture the airframe for the U.S. Air Force’s FQ-42 Vengeance Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA).
Announced in an October 23, 2026, press release, the agreement designates Spirit Defense, a Boeing Company, as a fuselage design-build partner. The collaboration aims to expand manufacturing capacity and establish production resilience as the U.S. Air Force (USAF) accelerates its uncrewed fighter program toward a goal of fielding hundreds of aircraft by the next decade.
Scaling production for the uncrewed fleet
The partnership connects GA-ASI headquarters in San Diego, California, with Spirit Defense operations in Wichita, Kansas. Spirit Defense operates as an independent supplier to the defense industry, providing engineering, manufacturing, and lifecycle support for military programs. By integrating Spirit Defense into the supply chain, GA-ASI intends to reduce the risk of single points of failure and increase the industrial depth required for high-volume production.
GA-ASI recently completed a new low-observable paint facility to support the CCA program and stated it is currently positioned to deliver six aircraft per month to meet initial USAF objectives. The addition of Spirit Defense is designed to scale that output further.
David R. Alexander, President of GA-ASI, highlighted the strategic necessity of the agreement in meeting military requirements.
“We’re excited to be working with Spirit Defense. We’ve established our proven design, development, and manufacturing capability for the FQ-42. With Spirit Defense we add capacity, which is exactly the kind of production resilience our U.S. Air Force customer is looking for with its CCA ramp-up. This kind of partnership represents the scalable industrial base the Air Force and the U.S. Department of [Defense] are looking for from industry.”
Keith Schrader, President and CEO of Spirit Defense, confirmed the company’s readiness to support the airframe build.
“We’re proud to bring deep manufacturing expertise and proven capabilities to this important program. Our team understands the responsibility that comes with supporting critical national defense programs, and we’re ready to deliver for our customer and the warfighter.”
The FQ-42 Vengeance in testing and evaluation
The FQ-42 Vengeance is a purpose-built, fifth-generation uncrewed fighter developed to operate alongside crewed aircraft in semi-autonomous combat roles. The design features an internal weapons bay, low observability, and a modular architecture intended for the rapid integration of mission systems and autonomy software.
On September 18, 2026, GA-ASI delivered a new FQ-42 Vengeance to Creech Air Force Base in Nevada to support continued USAF test, evaluation, and experimentation. The aircraft has already participated in formation flights with crewed fighters, including the F-35 Lightning II and the F-15E Strike Eagle.
Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink officially named the aircraft “Vengeance” on September 14, 2026. The aircraft was previously known internally as Dark Merlin. During the naming announcement, Meink emphasized the rapid pace of the acquisition program.
“Today, the first FQ-42 and FQ-44 increments are already rolling off the assembly line,” Meink stated. “They’ll be performing many of the same missions that we do with manned fighters today.”
Evolution of the Collaborative Combat Aircraft initiative
The USAF Collaborative Combat Aircraft program is designed to field affordable, semi-autonomous drones to augment crewed fighter squadrons. The target unit cost for the aircraft at full-rate production is approximately $20 million.
GA-ASI was selected by the USAF in April 2024 to build production-representative flight test articles for the program. The FQ-42 Vengeance completed its maiden flight in August 2025, and GA-ASI secured an initial production contract from the USAF in June 2026. The FQ-42 is one of two primary designs selected for the first increment of CCA production, alongside Anduril Industries’ FQ-44 Fury.
The scope of the CCA program has expanded significantly since its inception. Initial projections called for 150 aircraft, but on September 14, 2026, the USAF confirmed a revised goal to field at least 500 Collaborative Combat Aircraft by 2032.
Mike Shortsleeve, Vice President for Strategy Business Development at GA-ASI, addressed the increased production targets following the USAF announcement.
“The intent for them is to go up to as many as 500 aircraft by 2032,” Shortsleeve said. “We’re ready to do that production.”
GA-ASI has operated as a sole manufacturer of its Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) line since its founding in 1992. Over 30 years, the company’s Predator line has logged more than 9 million flight hours across platforms including the MQ-1C Gray Eagle, MQ-9A Reaper, MQ-9B SkyGuardian/SeaGuardian, and the MQ-20 Avenger.
Beyond the domestic FQ-42 program, GA-ASI is engaged in discussions with international militaries regarding the Gambit Series. The Gambit Series is a family of modular CCAs derived from the FQ-42, the XQ-67A Off-Board Sensing Station, and the MQ-20 Avenger, optimized for electronic warfare, suppression and destruction of enemy air defenses, and stand-off precision strike missions.
AirPro News analysis
The partnership between GA-ASI and Spirit Defense illustrates the central challenge of the Collaborative Combat Aircraft program: industrial capacity. Designing a capable uncrewed fighter is only half the mandate; the other half is manufacturing it at a scale and price point that traditional defense primes have struggled to achieve with crewed aircraft. By bringing a Boeing subsidiary into the fold for fuselage production, GA-ASI is signaling to the Department of Defense that it can meet the aggressive 2032 target of 500 aircraft without requiring massive, unilateral capital expenditure.
This distributed manufacturing approach also directly addresses the Pentagon’s ongoing concerns regarding supply chain fragility. Relying on a single facility in San Diego for a critical next-generation platform presents a strategic vulnerability. Distributing the airframe build to Wichita builds redundancy into the program while leveraging existing aerospace manufacturing infrastructure, a model that will likely become standard as the USAF pushes for higher volumes of attritable or semi-attritable autonomous systems.
Photo Credit: General Atomics
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