Britain and Poland are set to sign a new defense and security treaty aimed at strengthening cooperation against a range of modern threats, including what both governments describe as an increasingly aggressive Russia.
The agreement, due to be signed in London by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, marks a significant expansion of bilateral ties and reflects broader efforts across Europe to reinforce security cooperation amid rising geopolitical tensions.
Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk attend a bilateral meeting as the countries formalise a UK-Poland security agreement, at RAF Northolt, near Uxbridge, Britain, May 27, 2026. REUTERS/Jack Taylor/Pool
According to the British government, the treaty will enhance collaboration on defense, border security and the fight against organized crime, while also deepening cooperation between Britain and the European Union on security matters.
Shared Concerns Over Russia
Before departing for London, Tusk said both Poland and the United Kingdom view Russia as a “strategic threat” and are expected to discuss the growing challenges posed by hybrid warfare, cyberattacks and espionage activities.
The agreement comes at a time when European governments are placing greater emphasis on collective security and defense preparedness. Concerns over cyber threats, disinformation campaigns and other forms of non-conventional warfare have become increasingly prominent across the continent.
“The challenges Europe now faces demand an even stronger partnership,” Starmer said in a statement ahead of the signing ceremony.
He described the treaty as the most significant advance in defense and security relations between the two countries in a generation, adding that it would help address modern threats that are often less visible but equally dangerous.
Focus on Defense Industry and Military Capabilities
A key component of the agreement involves closer cooperation between British and Polish defense industries.
The two countries plan to combine expertise and industrial capabilities to support the development and production of next-generation military technologies. This includes efforts to strengthen air defense and missile defense systems.
The treaty is expected to provide a framework for deeper collaboration in advanced weapons manufacturing, reflecting a broader trend among European nations to increase defense investment and expand domestic production capabilities.
Cybersecurity Takes Centre Stage
Cybersecurity will also play a major role in the new partnership.
Poland has repeatedly warned that its position as a major hub for military assistance to Ukraine has made it a target for espionage operations, cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns. Tusk indicated that strengthening cyber resilience would be a significant element of the agreement.
The enhanced cooperation is intended to improve both countries’ ability to respond to digital threats and protect critical infrastructure from potential attacks.
Part of a Wider European Strategy
The pact with Poland follows a series of defense agreements pursued by Starmer’s government with European partners. Britain has already signed similar arrangements with France and Germany as part of efforts to strengthen security ties across the continent.
The initiative also comes amid growing pressure on European nations to assume a larger role in their own defense. Calls from U.S. President Donald Trump for Europe to take greater responsibility for continental security have intensified discussions about military cooperation and defense spending among NATO allies.
Poland has likewise expanded its network of security partnerships. In 2025, Warsaw signed a defense treaty with France and is currently working on a similar agreement with Germany.
