At the core of this cooperation is the PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE), described as the world’s most advanced air defence missile. The system is a vital element of Poland’s WISŁA air defence modernisation programme and a cornerstone of its missile defence strategy.
Through the WISŁA offset programme, Lockheed Martin has built partnerships with Polish defence companies to deliver technology, training, and technical assistance. These projects provide capabilities for the PAC-3 programme while bolstering regional security and Poland’s industrial base.
This summer, Wojskowe Zakłady Uzbrojenia SA (WZU) joined the PAC-3 MSE global supply chain, a step hailed as delivering tangible benefits to both Poland and the United States. Earlier in the year, Lockheed Martin received its first shipment of PAC-3 MSE launch tubes from WZL-1, marking a critical milestone in the partnership.
In addition, four WISŁA offset projects were completed in collaboration with WZL-1, WZU and WZE, providing key systems for the PAC-3 MSE launcher and ground equipment. Last year, Lockheed Martin and five Polish firms also signed agreements supporting projects that created high-value jobs and advanced technologies.
“Lockheed Martin is proud to stand alongside Poland as a trusted partner in national security, delivering critical capabilities to enhance the country’s and NATO’s defense posture,” said Robert Orzylowski, director of Poland and Central and Eastern Europe for Lockheed Martin. “Through our collaborative efforts with the Polish industrial base, we’re not only strengthening Poland’s industry, but also creating a pipeline of highly skilled jobs and unlocking new opportunities for Polish businesses to compete on the global stage.”
Lockheed Martin has been present in Poland since 1996, working with the Ministry of Defence on defence and security programmes, including advanced missile systems. Its in-country operations sustain more than 6,700 jobs, with 1,500 of these at PZL Mielec, a Lockheed Martin company and one of Poland’s largest aircraft manufacturers.
For over 87 years, the Mielec facility has designed, built, and serviced aircraft and helicopters, and today it is Lockheed Martin’s largest production site outside the United States. The company said its investments have created a pipeline of skilled jobs and opened new opportunities for Polish businesses in the global market.
Lockheed Martin stated it remains committed to collaboration with Poland’s defence industry. The company emphasised that its partnerships contribute both to Poland’s economic growth and to delivering critical capabilities that underpin NATO’s defence posture.
