Poland is set to continue its unprecedented increase in defense spending, with a record allocation of PLN 186 billion planned for 2025. This budget will represent 4.7% of Poland’s GDP, solidifying the country’s position as the NATO member that dedicates the highest proportion of its GDP to defense. Poland has consistently increased its defense expenditures over the years, reflecting its commitment to national security.
Top Spender Among NATO Countries
According to a NATO report from June, Poland’s defense spending for 2024 is estimated at 4.12% of GDP, up from 3.26% in 2023. This positions Poland as the top spender in NATO in terms of GDP percentage, surpassing Estonia, the United States, and Latvia. With only five NATO countries spending more than 3% of their GDP on defense, Poland’s commitment stands out significantly.
While the U.S. leads in nominal defense spending, with nearly $1 trillion allocated in 2024, Poland ranks fifth among NATO countries in nominal terms, with a planned expenditure of $35 billion. This places Poland ahead of Italy and just below France, showcasing its growing influence within the alliance. Poland’s increased budget will reinforce its position as a key contributor to NATO’s collective defense.