Poland to deploy first batch of US HIMARS near russian border

The United States has sent a batch of HIMARS multiple launch rocket systems to Poland for the first time.

Source. This was reported by CNN.

The acquisition ceremony took place on Monday at an air base in Warsaw. It was attended by Polish Defense Minister Mariusz Blaszczak and military representatives of the defense sector of the republic.

HIMARS missile systems have proven to be effective in russia's war with Ukraine, Blaszczak said.

"Today we are accepting HIMARS into the Polish Army. Weapons that have proven themselves in battles are in the hands of Ukrainians, stopping the russian invasion," Blaszczak said.

According to him, Poland intends to purchase about 500 units.

"We are following the developments in Ukraine and know that artillery plays a key role in the war, in repelling the russian invasion," the Polish Defense Minister said.

Under a contract signed in 2019, Poland purchased 18 HIMARS systems and two training facilities, along with ammunition and equipment, for $414 million in line with plans to strengthen its defense capabilities.

Poland will deploy the HIMARS in the northeast of the country, the Polish Defense Minister said, near the border with russia.

The Polish authorities intend to open a HIMARS academy in Toruń, where the Polish military, as well as servicemen from other NATO countries, will be able to learn how to use the missile systems.

Last year, Poland received a number of American Patriot air defense systems and Abrams tanks, as well as tanks and howitzers from South Korea, AP reports.

In October last year, Defense news reported that Poland had finalized negotiations with Seoul on the purchase of about 300 K239 Chunmoo MLRS. The first deliveries are to begin in 2023.