Wojskowe Zakłady Elektroniczne (WZE) in Zielonka and CNPEP Radwar have signed an agreement on co-operation which could lead to the merger of these strategically important armaments companies. The signing was attended by deputy ministers: Dariusz Bogdan of the economy, Krzysztof Łaszkiewicz of the Treasury, and Zenon Kosiniak-Kamysz of national defence as well as Bumar’s president, Edward Nowak.

On behalf of CNPEP Radwar the agreement was signed by President Leszek Pawłowski and vice-president for technology Ryszard Nowak. WZE was represented by President Edward Żak and board member for economic affairs Tadeusz Klepka

A year ago the government adopted a strategy for restructuring Poland’s defence industry. The Bumar management board of the time presented their proposals for changes at the company according to the strategy; their ineffectual attempt was rejected. The new board proposed solutions that complied with the strategy. The document met with resistance from some officials, especially those who remained from the time of the previous PiS government. It has now turned out that current decision-makers are determined to see the changes through.

The signing of this agreement between two companies accountable to different owners was witnessed by deputy ministers from all the ministries that are key for the arms industry. Perhaps this ceremony will be a watershed and result in genuine consolidation within the sector.