Poland's first F-35 at Lockheed Martin's Fort Worth (X/MarioNawfal)
New Delhi: Poland took a major step forward in its defense modernization on Wednesday, as its leaders got a first glimpse of their country's inaugural F-35A combat jet at an unveiling ceremony held at Lockheed Martin's manufacturing facility.
Poland’s decision to order 32 F-35A jets more than four years ago represents a $4.6 billion investment. This acquisition is a cornerstone of a broader modernization program that seeks to upgrade Poland’s military as a countermeasure against potential Russian aggression. The unveiling of the F-35A underscores Poland’s commitment to modernizing its armed forces amid growing geopolitical tensions.
The ceremony was led by Polish Deputy National Defense Ministers Paweł Bejda and Cezary Tomczyk. Tomczyk emphasized the strategic importance of advanced military equipment, stating, “Poland is the only country in the world that shares borders with Russia, Ukraine and Belarus. To keep the borders unchanged, we need the best equipment, the best capability and the best friends.”
Greg Ulmer, President of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, highlighted the longstanding partnership between Poland and Lockheed Martin. “Our successful collaboration spans multiple aircraft programs, including the C-130 Hercules, the F-16 Fighting Falcon, and now the F-35A Lightning II,” Ulmer said. This partnership reflects a history of fruitful cooperation and paves the way for future engagements.
The F-35s will initially be stationed at Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Fort Smith, Arkansas, where they will serve as trainers for Polish pilots between now and 2026. The first batch of F-35s is expected to arrive in Poland in 2026, making Poland the first Eastern European country to operate this advanced jet. Deliveries will continue until 2030, with four to six aircraft arriving each year, according to the Polish Ministry of National Defence.
The introduction of the F-35s will significantly enhance the capabilities of the Polish Air Force. The new aircraft will join the existing fleet of F-16 C/D Block 52+ jets and FA-50 light attack aircraft. This expansion is part of Poland’s broader strategy to modernize its air combat capabilities.
A new era of aerial power begins for Poland! The first F-35A fighter for the Polish Air Force rolls off the assembly line at Lockheed Martin's Fort Worth plant.pic.twitter.com/UblUcPfGaa
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) August 30, 2024
Poland has already demonstrated its commitment to supporting regional security by donating Soviet-made Mikoyan MiG-29 jets to Ukraine last year. The Polish military also operates outdated Sukhoi Su-22 jets, which are expected to be retired around 2025. With the F-35s coming into service, Lockheed Martin is optimistic about securing an additional batch of 32 fighters from the Polish government.
The Polish government is exploring options for additional aircraft to further enhance its air-superiority capabilities. While Lockheed Martin is promoting a second F-35 deal, Poland’s National Defence Ministry is evaluating other aircraft types, including the Eurofighter Typhoon and Boeing’s F-15EX. This decision is influenced by the need for versatile and advanced combat solutions.
Under the previous Law and Justice party administration, Poland was leaning towards acquiring more U.S. aircraft. Mariusz Błaszczak, an opposition lawmaker and former defense minister, stated, “We need at least two more squadrons of multirole aircraft. This decision must be made at the military level. Various scenarios are being considered, among them, heavy twin-engine F-15EX or more F-35As and F-16s.”
Following a shift in government in December 2023, the new centrist coalition is focused on strengthening ties with European partners, including defense initiatives. Prime Minister Donald Tusk is committed to maintaining close relations with Washington while also engaging in European defense projects such as the European Sky Shield Initiative and the development of a new main battle tank.
In May 2024, OBRUM, a research and development offshoot of PGZ, announced its involvement in the European tank project, highlighting Poland’s active role in shaping the future of European defense.
Copyright © 2025 Top Indian News
