Britain is urging Poland to select Swedish defence group Saab SAABb.ST for a multi-billion-euro submarine contract that could also involve UK engineering firm Babcock BAB.L, according to
people familiar with the matter.
Babcock declined to comment on any potential role in the bid.
A UK government spokesperson did not address the lobbying directly, but said recent warship and fighter-jet export deals were generating billions of pounds for the British economy. “We are making defence an engine for growth – delivering jobs and boosting the UK economy whilst strengthening our commitment to NATO allies and European security,” the spokesperson said.
Saab, which produces submarines, fighter jets, surveillance systems and missiles, said its boats are designed for the unique conditions of the Baltic Sea. It referred any questions on the UK position to British authorities.
Poland is expected to choose a supplier for its “Orka” programme within weeks, part of its drive to modernise its navy and deepen NATO cooperation as tensions with Russia persist. Saab is among several shortlisted contenders alongside manufacturers from Italy, Spain, France, Germany and South Korea.
Two officials told Reuters that British Prime Minister Keir Starmer co-signed a letter of support with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson. The letter was included in Saab’s final offer, submitted in late October.
The move underscores the political manoeuvring across Europe as governments seek a share of rising defence spending prompted by Russia’s war in Ukraine. “The UK’s Babcock, among other British partners, will participate in Sweden’s bid,” one source said, requesting anonymity.
Starmer and Kristersson wrote that they were confident the Swedish proposal would strengthen security in the Baltic Sea, according to an official who reviewed the document.
Polish media report that bids from Germany, Italy and Sweden are currently seen as frontrunners for the high-stakes contract. All three nations are NATO and EU partners of Poland. Photo by Mate 2nd Class Patricia R. Totemeier, U.S. Navy Photo, Wikimedia commons.