Poland’s naval strategy: why midget submarines are not a viable alternative to conventional submarines

Poland’s naval strategy: why midget submarines are not a viable alternative to conventional submarines

The necessity of conventional submarines in the Baltic Sea For years, Poland has recognised the necessity of modernising its submarine fleet, and the Orka programme has been at the forefront of these efforts. The plan to acquire three full-sized conventional submarines with AIP technology accelerated after the escalation of hostilities in Ukraine, reflecting Poland’s heightened security concerns in the Baltic Sea region. A number of internationa…

Special Paper: Silent Guardians Part 2: The Overview of Potential Contenders in Poland’s ORKA Submarine Program

Given Poland’s fundamental importance in the context of defending NATO’s eastern flank, the new submarines will enable the securing of key trade and communication routes, as well as Poland’s strategic interests in the Baltic Sea.