A potential agreement for the production of South Korean K2 tanks in Poland may be finalized in the upcoming weeks, according to Polish President Andrzej Duda. This development could significantly enhance Warsaw’s defense capabilities. In light of Russia‘s invasion of Ukraine, Poland has been increasing its military expenditures, with South Korea becoming a vital supplier of arms.

Hyundai Rotem, a South Korean company focused on industrial and defense projects, secured a deal in 2022 to provide 1,000 K2 tanks. However, it has only formalized a contract worth 4.5 trillion won (approximately $3.24 billion) for the export of 180 units thus far.

Poland aims to expedite the process by having the tanks manufactured domestically. “I anticipate that in the near future, we will finalize a crucial agreement that will lead to the actual Polonization of the K2 tank, meaning its production will take place in Poland,” Duda stated during his visit to Busan, South Korea. “All major issues have been settled,” he continued, noting that discussions are still ongoing regarding the selection of the production site.

The announcement was made two days following the United States’ assertion that it had observed indications of North Korea dispatching 3,000 troops to Russia for potential deployment in Ukraine. The office of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has not yet provided a response to a request for comment regarding Duda’s statement.

On Thursday, the leaders of Poland and South Korea reached an agreement to expedite the finalization of a new contract for the export of South Korean K2 tanks to Poland by the year’s end.