Poland buys submarines while Romania only promises: Expert explains strategic gap

Poland is significantly bolstering its naval capabilities by purchasing three advanced SAAB A26 submarines, a move confirmed by the Swedish government. The deal, valued at approximately 4.5 billion euros, is part of Poland's Orka naval modernization program aimed at strengthening its defenses in the Baltic Sea against the Russian fleet.

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I think, and I say this with sadness, we can no longer compare ourselves to Poland. Not in any aspect: political, economic, social, military.

In stark contrast, Romania's efforts to acquire submarines for Black Sea protection have stalled for years, with no tangible progress made despite repeated promises. This inaction highlights a widening strategic gap between the two Eastern European nations. Comandor (ret.) Sandu Valentin Mateiu, a former naval officer and intelligence analyst, expressed concern over Romania's lack of progress, noting that the countries are no longer comparable on any front: political, economic, social, or military.

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That country has clearly defined its democracy. They know clearly what democracy means and where they are going.

Mateiu described Poland as a major European power that has rediscovered its pre-communist identity and achieved political stability. He acknowledged Poland's internal political debates but emphasized the country's clear definition of democracy and its strategic direction. Economically and politically, Poland has undergone significant reforms, and even socially, Mateiu suggested, "not even the cats in Poland are with Russia."

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In the military sphere, this evolution of society is exactly reflected. Polish society is a society of economic success. Poland is a remarkable success in Eastern Europe.

This social and political cohesion in Poland directly translates into a coherent military policy and clear procurement strategies. Poland's economic success has fueled its military modernization, characterized by well-defined acquisition programs, a robust defense industry, and a clear army development plan. Mateiu contrasted this with Romania's situation, where progress on naval programs is severely lacking across all these crucial chapters.

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In this coherence, we have clear strategies, clear acquisition programs, a well-defined defense industry, a well-defined army development program. And all these generate security structures.