Poland will host a European center to check and care for PAC-3 missiles. These missiles are part of Patriot systems, which protect against attacks from the air. US authorities chose Poland for the project. Its estimated value is about one billion Polish zlotys, or 227 million euros.
Germany, the Netherlands and Norway also wanted to host the center. Poland's plan got the highest score in the first part of the process. The final choice came after months of talks with US officials.
Poland must now hold more talks with Lockheed Martin, an American company that makes military equipment. Poland's deputy defense minister said the center would need at least several months before it could start work. Workers there will keep the missiles in good condition and ready for use.
Officials said the project shows that NATO countries stand together. The Pentagon said the project is intended to help European allies take greater responsibility for their own defense. Caring for missiles in Poland could also make the work faster and help Poland build its skills.
