Brussels: Poland has officially applied for up to £45 billion (approximately $52.8 billion) in loans from a new European Union scheme aimed at bolstering the bloc's defense and security infrastructure, as stated by the country's defense minister. The initiative is part of the Security Action of Europe (SAFE), a £150 billion loan facility designed to support member states in upgrading their military capabilities, including weapons, ammunition, and other defense requirements.

According to Anadolu Agency, Polish Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz announced the submission on the social media platform X, revealing that Warsaw had submitted a preliminary declaration to the European Commission to secure financing under the SAFE program. The minister emphasized that the funds would be directed towards enhancing the key capabilities of the Polish Armed Forces and security programs, notably the 'East Shield' initiative.

Kosiniak-Kamysz highlighted that the Polish government has devised defense projects valued at approximately £45 billion. He pointed out that the final amount received will be contingent upon the number of applications and the distribution of funds by the European Commission among member states. He characterized the application as a significant investment in Poland's security and defense sector, asserting that it would also strengthen broader European and NATO defense capacities.

The European Commission confirmed Poland's submission and noted that at least 20 member states were anticipated to apply for the SAFE loans before Tuesday night's deadline. The SAFE program, introduced during Poland's presidency of the EU Council, is viewed as an essential element of Europe's strategy to rearm and address emerging security challenges. The EU budget supports loans issued through SAFE, which can be utilized for both national and joint procurement of military equipment. Non-EU countries, including Ukraine, Norway, Switzerland, and the UK, are eligible to participate through special agreements.