Poland is stepping up efforts to secure a permanent United States military presence on its territory, reviving discussions around the long-mooted “Fort Trump” project as part of a broader strategy to strengthen NATO’s eastern flank. The initiative reflects Warsaw’s determination to anchor American forces in Central Europe amid ongoing security concerns linked to Russia’s war against Ukraine.

The concept of Fort Trump, first floated several years ago, envisages the establishment of a major US base in Poland hosting thousands of American troops, along with command, logistics and training facilities. 

Polish officials argue that such a base would significantly enhance deterrence in the region while reinforcing the transatlantic bond that underpins European security.

Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz has stressed that Poland remains one of Washington’s most committed allies, pointing to record levels of defence spending and continued investment in military infrastructure. 

Existing facilities used by US forces are already being expanded, and Warsaw has made clear it is ready to shoulder a substantial share of the costs associated with a permanent base.

Supporters of the project say Fort Trump would send a clear signal of NATO’s resolve and long-term engagement in Eastern Europe, particularly at a time of heightened geopolitical uncertainty. 

The “Fort Trump” project is in preparation in one of the most westernmost cities of Poland – Bolesławiec. It will also feature a new logistics hub around the existing airport in Wrocław.

For Warsaw, the creation of Fort Trump would not only deepen bilateral ties with the United States but also serve as a cornerstone of regional security for decades to come.

Poland’s expanding military cooperation with the United States is also evident in the rapid delivery of American-made equipment to Polish bases. 

In recent days, seven leased AH-64D Apache attack helicopters have arrived at the 56th Air Base near Inowrocław, forming part of a bridging arrangement that will enable early training ahead of the delivery of 96 next-generation AH-64E Apaches later in the decade.

Photo: X/@ConflictDISP

Tomasz Modrzejewski