World News | Poland Signs Deal to Buy 2nd Batch of US Abrams Tanks

Warsaw, Jan 4 (AP) Poland's defence minister on Wednesday signed a deal to buy a second batch of US Abrams main battle tanks as Warsaw beefs up its defensive capabilities and strengthens military cooperation with Washington in light of Russia's war in neighbouring Ukraine.

Officials said Poland is the first US ally in Europe to be receiving Abrams tanks.

Also Read | New York Man Sentenced for Conspiring to Steal General Electric Technology for China.

Defense Minister Mariusz Blaszczak signed the USD 1.4 billion deal at a military base in Wesola, near Warsaw. The agreement foresees the delivery of 116 M1A1 Abrams tanks with related equipment and logistics starting this year.

Attending the signing ceremony were US deputy chief of mission in Poland Daniel Lawton and US Brig. Gen. John Lubas, deputy commander of the 101st Airborne Division, elements of which are stationed in southeastern Poland close to the border with Ukraine.

Also Read | Indian-Origin Woman Convicted of Abusing Domestic Help, Covering Victim's Bruises With Make-Up in Singapore.

The deal follows last year's agreement for the acquisition of 250 upgraded M1A2 Abrams tanks that will be delivered in 2025-26. Poland is also awaiting delivery of US HIMARS artillery systems and has already received Patriot missile batteries.

Speaking in Wesola, Polish and US officials said the deals strengthen Poland, the region and NATO's eastern flank as the war in Ukraine continues. (AP)

(The above story is verified and authored by Press Trust of India (PTI) staff. PTI, India’s premier news agency, employs more than 400 journalists and 500 stringers to cover almost every district and small town in India.. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)