In a momentous ceremony held on August 16, the PGZ Naval Shipyard witnessed a significant milestone as the first steel plates were cut for the inaugural frigate-class vessel under the Miecznik programme. This event signals the commencement of a new phase in the implementation of the ambitious Miecznik initiative, which aims to equip the Polish Navy with cutting-edge frigate-class vessels.
Launching the Miecznik Programme for Advancing Polish Navy’s Fleet
Distinguished attendees, including Minister of National Defence Mariusz Błaszczak, Minister of State Assets Jacek Sasin, and Head of the National Security Bureau Jacek Siewiera, gathered at the ceremony, underlining its paramount importance in Polish Navy history. As part of the Miecznik programme, the Navy is poised to acquire three state-of-the-art frigate-class vessels by 2032, solidifying its naval capabilities for years to come.
Undoubtedly, this milestone is the culmination of meticulous design and technical preparations. Sebastian Chwałek, CEO of PGZ S.A., expressed his gratification, saying, “This is the result of several months of hard work… For the entire shipbuilding industry, this is a momentous occasion.”
“In #PGZStoczniaWojenna the construction of the first frigate #Miecznik for Polish Navy started. This is a very important moment for the PGZ-Miecznik consortium and our strategic partners Babcock International, MBDA, Thales Group and Remontowa Shipbuilding,”
PGZ wrote on X (formely known as Twitter).
Redefining Naval Potential: Cutting-Edge Miecznik Frigates to Elevate Polish Navy’s Capabilities
The three modern Miecznik frigates, a product of collaboration between the PGZ Naval Shipyard and leading defence industry players like Babcock, MBDA, Thales, and Remontowa Shipbuilding, will redefine the Polish Navy’s capabilities. The first frigate is slated for completion by 2026, adhering to the program’s schedule and affirming the robustness of its execution.
The multi-faceted capabilities of these vessels will significantly enhance the Polish Navy’s operational scope, encompassing tasks ranging from safeguarding maritime routes to protecting critical infrastructure. The integration of these frigates into the Polish Armed Forces will bolster the nation’s military prowess while also reinforcing its commitment within the North Atlantic Alliance, including assignments under the aegis of NATO Standing Ship Teams.
Armed with advanced radar, artillery, and missile systems, these multi-purpose frigates will empower the Polish Navy to execute diverse missions within its maritime borders and participate seamlessly in exercises and operations alongside NATO allies.
Economic Growth and Technological Advancement: The Far-reaching Impacts of the Miecznik Programme on Poland’s Naval Landscape
The strategic implications of this project extend beyond naval strength, as the initiative engenders economic growth. Approximately 2,000 job opportunities will be generated in shipyards, armament companies, and allied industrial sectors involved in the project’s realization. These newly cultivated competencies will be instrumental in propelling future capabilities and expediting efforts on forthcoming projects to bolster the Polish Navy’s assets.
The comprehensive Miecznik programme, under the guidance of the Armaments Inspectorate, stands as a testament to Poland’s dedication to maritime security and technological advancement. The PGZ-MIECZNIK Consortium, composed of Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa S.A., PGZ Stocznia Wojenna sp. z o.o., along with strategic partners Remontowa Shipbuilding S.A., Babcock, Thales UK, and MBDA UK, underscores the collaborative spirit underpinning this groundbreaking endeavour.