Archive · 14 Nov 2025
UK Lobbies Poland to Choose Swedish Submarines for Naval Modernization
Imagine Poland wants to buy new submarines for its navy, which is like getting a new powerful toy for its defense team.
Several countries want Poland to buy their submarines.
The United Kingdom's leader, Keir Starmer, is talking to Poland and encouraging them to pick a submarine made by a Swedish company called Saab.
A British company called Babcock might also help make some parts.
This is happening because countries are spending more on defense as tensions rise with Russia.
Poland needs these submarines to help protect itself and its friends in NATO, especially in the Baltic Sea area.
The decision might be made very soon, possibly in just a few weeks.
Other countries like Germany, Italy, France, and South Korea also want Poland to buy their submarines, and Polish media think the offers from Germany, Italy, and Sweden are the most likely to be chosen.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is lobbying Poland to award a submarine contract to Swedish firm Saab.
The deal, part of Poland's 'Orka' naval modernization program, could involve UK defense group Babcock.
Saab's final offer, including a letter of support from Starmer and Swedish PM Ulf Kristersson, was submitted in late October.
Poland is seeking to modernize its navy and bolster NATO ties amidst rising tensions with Russia.
German, Italian, and Swedish offers are reportedly frontrunners, with a decision expected within weeks.
- Who
- UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, Polish officials, Swedish defense group Saab, and UK defense group Babcock.
- What
- Lobbying efforts by the UK for Poland to award a multi-billion euro submarine contract to Swedish firm Saab, which may include participation from UK's Babcock.
- When
- A decision on the 'Orka' programme could be made within weeks; Saab's final offer was submitted in late October.
- Where
- Warsaw, Poland.
- Why
- Poland is modernizing its navy and strengthening NATO ties amid escalating tensions with Russia. The UK aims to boost its economy through defense contracts.
UK Support for Swedish Bid
Other Contenders
Submarine Purchase
UK Support for Swedish Bid
The UK, through Prime Prime Minister Keir Starmer, is actively lobbying Poland to award a submarine contract to Swedish defense group Saab, potentially involving UK's Babcock. This is seen as a move to boost the British economy and enhance Baltic Sea security.
Other Contenders
Other European nations including Italy, Spain, France, Germany, and South Korea also have manufacturers shortlisted for the contract. Polish media reports suggest German, Italian, and Swedish offers are currently frontrunners.
- Programme Name
- Orka
- Contract Value
- Multi-billion euro/dollar
- Key UK Involved Company
- Babcock
- Key Swedish Bidder
- Saab
- Decision Timeline
- Within weeks
- Saab's Offer Submission
- Late October