CaliToday (19/9/2025): The U.S. State Department has approved a potential Foreign Military Sale to Poland for FGM-148F Javelin anti-tank missiles and associated equipment for an estimated cost of $780 million. The deal, announced by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), marks another significant step in Poland's aggressive military modernization efforts as it shores up its defenses on NATO's eastern flank.
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| File photo by Cody Nelson |
Poland's formal request includes 2,506 FGM-148F Javelin missiles and 253 Javelin Lightweight Command Launch Units (LWCLU). The comprehensive support package also covers missile simulation rounds, battery coolant units, tool kits, spare parts, extensive training, and logistical support from both the U.S. government and contractors.
In its official release, the DSCA stated that the proposed sale "will support the foreign policy and national security of the United States by improving the security of a NATO Ally that is a force for political and economic stability in Europe."
Advanced Capabilities
The Javelin system, co-produced by American defense giants Raytheon and Lockheed Martin, is one of the most proven and widely used anti-tank guided missiles in the NATO arsenal. The FGM-148F variant requested by Poland features an advanced multi-purpose warhead, offering improved lethality against various target types in diverse combat environments.
A critical component of the deal is the next-generation Lightweight Command Launch Unit (LWCLU). This new sighting system offers substantial upgrades over the original unit: it is 70% smaller, 40% lighter, and boasts a 50% longer battery life. Crucially, the advanced optics and processing power of the LWCLU extend the missile’s effective engagement range from 2,500 meters to 4,000 meters, putting it on par with systems like Israel’s Spike LR.
Strategic Importance
This acquisition will dramatically expand Poland’s anti-armor capability, particularly for its light infantry and territorial defense forces that depend on man-portable weapon systems. The DSCA emphasized that the sale will "improve Poland’s capability to meet current and future threats by upgrading its existing inventory... thereby reinforcing its capability to protect Polish sovereignty and interoperate with U.S. and NATO forces."
The State Department noted that Poland "will have no difficulty absorbing these articles and services into its armed forces," pointing to the country's robust modernization program.
The deal deepens the already strong U.S.-Polish defense relationship at a time of heightened security concerns in Eastern Europe. Poland has emerged as one of the largest European customers for U.S. military hardware, with recent and ongoing acquisitions of Abrams main battle tanks, HIMARS rocket artillery systems, and F-35 stealth fighter jets. This proposed Javelin sale further solidifies Poland's position as a central defense hub for the NATO alliance.
