According to French broadcaster BFM TV, Poland is rapidly expanding its tank fleet as part of an effort to build one of the strongest ground forces in Europe.

The outlet reported that Warsaw plans to increase its tank inventory to 1,100 vehicles by 2030. That would exceed the combined fleet of Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom and France, which currently stands at about 950 tanks. At present, only Greece and Turkey operate larger tank forces.

BFM TV noted that Poland had just under 800 tanks in 2024. By 2032, that number is expected to roughly double to 1,600. The Polish army operates German Leopard tanks, U.S.-made Abrams and South Korean K2s.

Warsaw is using these purchases not only to strengthen its armed forces, but also to develop its domestic defense industry by acquiring technology from foreign partners.

According to the report, the scale of the buildup has not been seen since the end of the Cold War. The authors said Poland wants to create a force large enough to deter Russia from attacking the country, adding that the effort extends beyond tanks.

BFM TV recalled that Poland purchased 250 U. S. M1 Abrams tanks in July 2021. South Korea has also become a key supplier. In 2022, Warsaw signed a framework agreement with Seoul covering the purchase of 1,000 K2 Black Panther tanks.

Military cooperation with the United States and South Korea is not limited to armored vehicles. Poland is also buying and developing joint projects involving artillery systems, guided missiles, fighter aircraft and helicopters.