For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
June 15, 2001
Statement by the Press Secretary
President Bush announced his strong support for the transfer of a
second Perry-class frigate to the Government of Poland. The
President will work with Congress to secure legislation authorizing the
transfer, which would further enhance the interoperability of the
Polish Navy with its NATO allies. With this announcement,
the President underscores the commitment of the United States to work
together with the government of Poland to reform and modernize Poland's
armed forces.
In April 2000, Poland received a Perry-class frigate, the former USS
Clark, from the United States. That frigate was commissioned
into the Polish Navy as the ORP Pulaski last June. To
enhance their seagoing capability of the Polish Navy, the Government of
Poland had requested a second frigate. The U.S. Navy has
identified a vessel that would be available as early as October
2002. Poland has stated its interest in participation in
NATO exercises and possibly contributing to future operations.
Fact Sheet
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