The Polish Parliament, on February 13, passed the Financial Instrument for Increasing Security (SAFE) Act, designed to effectively manage a substantial amount of €43.7 billion in low-interest loans from the European Union intended for defense investment. This initiative is crucial as it aims to modernize Poland's defense capabilities amid growing concerns over regional security. However, the SAFE program has encountered significant opposition, particularly from the opposition parties and members of the ruling PiS party, who express concerns that the initiative may serve as a political tool manipulated by Germany.

The PiS political faction has voiced strong objections against the SAFE program, arguing for legislation that would ensure nearly 90% of the procurement benefits local Polish firms. Deputy Minister of Defense Cezary Tomczyk is an advocate for the program and reassured skeptics by emphasizing that the funds will remain in Poland, with technologies and innovations stemming from these investments being fully harnessed domestically. Notable firms cited by him that stand to gain from the SAFE initiative include Huta Stalowa Wola, Zakłady Mechaniczne Tarnów, and others, as the Ministry of National Defense emphasizes promoting local procurement.

As the legislative process continues, there remains an underlying uncertainty regarding the stance of President Karol Nawrocki and the potential for a presidential veto against the SAFE Act. Should this veto occur, the government has indicated there is a plan B in place—though details of this contingency remain undisclosed. The outcome of this situation will have significant implications for Poland's defense strategy and economic collaboration with other participating European countries in the SAFE program.