Poland’s A26 submarine contract finalized, with a total value of 47,000,000,000,000 won
Poland has signed a contract to procure three A26 submarines from the Swedish company Saab. According to a statement from the Polish Ministry of National Defense, the contract was signed on June 29, 2026, in Gdynia, marking the entry of the long-stalled “Orka” submarine program into the official ordering stage.
According to Saab’s announcement, the order value is approximately 47,000,000,000 Swedish krona. The contract includes not only the construction of submarines but also weapon systems, crew training, and subsequent logistical support. The final delivery is scheduled to be carried out sequentially until 2038.
A26 Submarine Armament Package: Key Component
While the complete armament configuration of this contract has not been disclosed, according to published reports, the A26 submarines for Poland will be equipped with an armaments package that includes both light and heavy torpedoes. The specific number of torpedoes, their models, and the operational software configuration have not been revealed.
In the missile field, the installation of any specific weapon system has not been officially announced. However, it is reported that Saab will be carrying out the integration work for a yet-to-be-identified missile on a submarine destined for Poland, and this missile is reportedly not a cruise missile.
Therefore, it is appropriate to understand the A26’s armament package, based on the currently available information, as centered around the integration of light torpedoes, heavy torpedoes, and undisclosed missile capabilities. If the Polish government or Saab releases a detailed list of the armament in the future, the evaluation of its operational range and its capabilities for anti-ship and anti-submarine missions may change.
Design features of the A26 tailored for the Baltic Sea operation
The Swedish government cited the following factors as reasons why Poland chose the A26: the shallow depth of the Baltic Sea, its complex seabed topography, and the limited operational space. In this environment, low detectability, precise maneuverability, and the ability to operate submerged for extended periods are as important as long-range navigation capabilities.
The A26 is a diesel-electric propulsion submarine designed to perform intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions covertly in coastal waters such as the Baltic Sea. Saab states that low noise operation and stealth are key design objectives for the A26.
From the perspective of the Polish Navy, the introduction of the A26 is not simply a matter of replacing existing ships, but a project that establishes a foundation for carrying out a variety of missions, including underwater surveillance, protection of maritime traffic routes, and support for special operations.
HMS Södermanland: Lease and Crew Training
To reduce the gap until the delivery of new submarines, Poland is leasing the Swedish Navy’s HMS Södermanland. According to a statement from the Swedish government, the lease period extends until 2032, and the submarine will supplement the underwater operational capabilities of the Polish Navy before the introduction of the new A26 submarines.
According to a statement from the Swedish military, the training for Polish submarine crew members was planned to begin in August 2026, with a training period of approximately 18 months. The Södermanland will be used as a practical training platform for Polish crew members to learn about Swedish submarine systems and operational procedures.
The Södermanland is equipped with weaponry and sensors designed for the Baltic Sea environment, and it can extend its underwater endurance through its air-independent propulsion (AIP) system. The Swedish Navy announced that it is currently conducting maintenance and preparation work on the vessel in anticipation of the lease.
Delivery schedule and industrial cooperation
The delivery schedule for this contract spans from 2031 to 2038. While some initial reports suggested that all three vessels would be delivered by 2031, Saab’s official announcement explicitly states that the submarines will be delivered sequentially, with the final delivery date being 2038.
The Swedish government plans to support Poland’s new submarine program from 2027 to 2038. This support includes participation in A26 prototype and testing activities, as well as training for crew members and assistance in securing operational capabilities at an early stage.
Industrial cooperation is also a key component of the agreement. The cooperation package prepared by the Polish government and Saab includes the participation of Polish defense companies in the supply chain, the expansion of local production and maintenance capabilities, and technology transfer and direct investment. Saab plans to establish maintenance, repair, and overhaul capabilities within Poland.
The Significance of the A26 in the Polish Navy’s Modernization
Poland has long relied on a single, aging submarine, and the Orca program was launched as a key naval modernization project to address this deficiency. The combination of three A26 submarines and the temporary deployment of the Södermanland aims to achieve two objectives simultaneously: the introduction of new vessels and the maintenance of specialized personnel for underwater warfare.
However, even after the delivery of the first vessel in 2031, a considerable amount of time will be needed for the operational deployment of three vessels. The actual enhancement of combat capabilities will depend not only on the delivery of the vessels but also on the progress of securing armaments, training crew members, establishing maintenance facilities, and developing operational doctrines.
This agreement is considered to be a project that goes beyond defense cooperation between Poland and Sweden, aiming to strengthen the underwater surveillance and deterrence system in the Baltic Sea. In particular, as the importance of protecting underwater infrastructure and maritime traffic routes increases on the eastern front of NATO, Poland’s efforts to rebuild its submarine fleet could also have an impact on the regional security landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many A26 submarines is Poland planning to procure?
Poland will procure three Saab A26 submarines. The project is named “Orka” and aims to replace the aging submarine fleet of the Polish Navy.
What is the contract amount for the A26 submarine?
According to Saab’s announcement, the order value is approximately 47,000,000,000 Swedish krona. This amount includes the submarine, weapon systems, crew training, and subsequent support.
What weapons are installed on the Polish A26 submarine?
According to currently available information, the package includes torpedoes, including both light and heavy torpedoes. Integration of missiles is also planned, but the specific types and quantities of missiles have not been disclosed.
When will Poland operate HMS Södermanland until?
Poland plans to lease the HMS Södermanland until 2032 to fill the gap before the introduction of the A26 submarine. This submarine will be used for crew training and maintaining operational capabilities.
When will the A26 submarine be delivered?
The delivery of the first vessel is scheduled to begin in 2031. The final delivery of all three ships is planned for 2038.
Does the Polish industry also participate in the project?
Yes, the cooperation package includes the participation of Polish defense industry companies in the supply chain, the establishment of local maintenance and repair capabilities, and technology transfer and industrial investment.
