Aviation News – Poland has authorized its defense minister to seek European Union SAFE program financing to acquire the nation’s first dedicated aerial refueling and strategic transport aircraft, marking a major step in strengthening its air capabilities.
The government filing, submitted in late November 2025, lists tanker and transport aircraft among Warsaw’s top priorities as it plans how to use its SAFE allocation of up to €43.7 billion. Poland is evaluating the purchase of two to four Airbus A330 MRTT aircraft, a program that could cost as much as €1 billion and significantly expand the country’s long-range operational capacity.
The Airbus A330 MRTT combines aerial refueling and cargo transport in a single platform, allowing the Polish Air Force to extend fighter endurance, support NATO missions, and conduct rapid strategic lift. The aircraft’s multi-role design gives commanders greater flexibility in both peacetime and crisis operations.
